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Glenelg Hopkins REGIONAL CATCHMENT STRATEGY 2003 - 2007

Striving towards a healthy and sustainable relationship between the natural environment and the community's use of land and water resources Cover 5/9/03 5:17 PM Page 3

© Glenelg Hopkins CMA The Glenelg Hopkins CMA wishes to acknowledge the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments for funding this publication through the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality. ISBN 0 759 410 364 Inside cover: Glenelg River Front cover: Glenelg River. Photographer Linda Wray-McCann 6389 GHCMA Strategy.qxd 5/9/03 4:09 PM Page 1

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA pioneered its first Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS) in 1997. The strategy was one of the first in Australia to integrate natural resource management across a region and fostered a considerable number of significant achievements.

In recent years, there have been changes in several key areas of natural resource management, specifically government policy, financial and institutional arrangements and community expectations. These developments have impacted on the Glenelg Hopkins CMA’s leadership role and its diverse activities. Consequently, a sweeping review of the RCS was conducted last year to measure progress made over the past five years and also identify future opportunities.

In considering the way forward, and to ensure ownership, the Board resolved to use staff and inhouse facilities to write and develop the RCS, resulting in well-developed expertise Mick Murphy Chairman to assist the strategy’s implementation and ongoing application. Noting this, I would like to acknowledge the work of Glenelg Hopkins CMA staff members, particularly Dr Adrian Volders, who had prime responsibility for researching and writing the strategy.

The review process included extensive community consultation, which is acknowledged as the cornerstone of catchment management in Victoria. The outcome is a new RCS critical to the region’s future health, wealth and prosperity.

The strategy establishes an integrated planning framework for land, water and biodiversity management until 2007. Importantly, and in line with the Glenelg Hopkins CMA’s ‘Board vision’, it strikes a balance between sustainable development and environmental protection.

The RCS sets clear realistic targets and objectives through a suite of action plans. These plans have been developed in consultation with the community, Federal and State Governments and other natural resource managers. It is also the foundation for continued government investment in the Glenelg Hopkins region through the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality, the National Heritage Trust and other related programs.

Accredited by the Federal Government and endorsed by the State Government, the RCS points the way forward by mirroring the ongoing commitment of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, other regional natural resource agencies and the community to the principles of integrated catchment management, sustainability and adaptive management.

The strategy’s success pivots on a single imperative ...that of community support.

I therefore commend this Regional Catchment Strategy to all rural and urban communities across the region and invite you to share the vision of a healthier catchment for current and future generations.

Mick Murphy Chairman, Glenelg Hopkins CMA

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CONTENTS

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN ...... 1 5.1.8 Regional Management Action Targets for Regional Sustainability ...... 71 ...... 1 STRATEGY OVERVIEW 4 5.2 Biodiversity...... 72 5.2.1 Rationale ...... 72 2 INTRODUCTION ...... 14 5.2.2 The Draft Glenelg Hopkins CMA 2.1 The Victorian Catchment Management Native Vegetation Plan ...... 73 Framework ...... 15 5.2.3 Regional Biodiversity Protection ...... 74 2.2 The Glenelg Hopkins CMA ...... 16 5.2.4 Regional Management Action Targets 2.3 The Vision and Objectives of the for Biodiversity...... 76 Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board...... 17 5.3 Waterway Health and Water Quality ...... 77 2.4 The Purpose of this Strategy...... 19 5.3.1 Rationale ...... 77 2.5 The Purpose of Associated Action Plans ...... 19 5.3.2 Waters of Victoria State Environment Protection Policy ...... 77 3CATCHMENT DESCRIPTION ...... 22 5.3.3 The Victorian and Glenelg Hopkins CMA 3.1 Landscape History ...... 23 River Health Plans...... 78 3.2 Climate ...... 24 5.3.4 Nutrient Management ...... 80 3.3 Regional Soils...... 24 5.3.5 Regional Drainage and Floodplain Management 81 5.3.6 Water Allocation ...... 81 3.4 Groundwater and Salinity ...... 27 5.3.7 Regional Management Action Targets for 3.5 Regional Rivers ...... 30 Waterway Health and Water Quality ...... 84 3.5.1 Hopkins River Basin ...... 30 5.4 Soil Decline and Salinity ...... 85 3.5.2 Glenelg River Basin ...... 32 5.4.1 Rationale ...... 85 3.5.3 Portland Coast Drainage Basin ...... 34 5.4.2 Soil Decline...... 85 3.5.4 Marine, Coastal and 5.4.3 Salinity ...... 87 Estuarine Environments ...... 35 5.4.4 Regional Management Action Targets 3.6 Regional Wetlands...... 36 for Soils and Salinity ...... 87 3.7 Regional Biodiversity ...... 38 5.5 Pest Plants and Animals ...... 88 3.7.1 Glenelg Plain Bioregion ...... 38 5.5.1 Rationale ...... 88 3.7.2 Victorian Volcanic Plain Bioregion ...... 40 5.5.2 The Goal of Pest Plant and ...... 3.7.3 Dundas Tablelands Bioregion 40 Animal Management ...... 88 ...... 3.7.4 Greater Grampians Bioregion 41 5.5.3 National, State and Regional Action Plans ...... 88 3.7.5 Warrnambool Plain Bioregion ...... 41 5.5.4 Management Action Targets for 3.8 Regional Parks and Reserves ...... 42 Pest Plants and Animals ...... 90 3.9 Pest Plant and Animal Infestations ...... 43 5.6 Coastal Areas ...... 91 3.10 Socio-Economic Profile ...... 45 5.6.1 Rationale ...... 91 3.10.1 Agricultural Production ...... 45 5.6.2 South West Victoria Regional 3.10.2 Employment...... 47 Coastal Action Plan and Estuaries Coastal Action Plan ...... 92 3.10.3 Population ...... 47 5.6.3 Management Action Targets for 3.10.4 Education and Qualifications ...... 48 Coastal Areas ...... 93 3.10.5 Community Networks ...... 48 3.11 Catchment Asset Identification...... 49 6 INTEGRATION TOOLS ...... 94 3.12 From Assets and Threats to Key Regional 6.1 Strategic Planning ...... 95 Challenges and Integration Tools ...... 53 6.1.1 Rationale ...... 95 6.1.2 Integrated Strategic Planning Across 4CATCHMENT TARGETS AND TARGET SETTING. . . 58 Geographic Scales ...... 95 4.1 Aspirational Targets ...... 60 6.1.3 Local Government ...... 97 4.2 Resource Condition Targets ...... 60 6.1.4 Information Resources for Planning...... 97 4.3 Regional Management Action Targets ...... 63 6.1.5 Regional Management Action Targets for Strategic Planning ...... 98 5 KEY REGIONAL CHALLENGES...... 64 6.2 Regional Partnerships ...... 99 5.1 Regional Sustainability ...... 65 6.2.1 Rationale ...... 99 5.1.1 Rationale ...... 65 6.2.2 Landcare and Other 5.1.2 Sustainable Agriculture...... 65 Community Partnerships ...... 99 5.1.3 Sustainable Fisheries ...... 67 6.2.3 Local Government...... 100 5.1.4 Land-use Change ...... 68 6.2.4 Industry ...... 101 5.1.5 Tourism ...... 69 6.2.5 Indigenous Communities ...... 101 5.1.6 Technological Innovation ...... 69 6.2.6 Educational Organisation ...... 101 5.1.7 The South West Sustainability Partnership ...... 70 6.2.7 Regional Management Action Targets for Partnerships...... 102

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CONTENTS

FIGURES

Figure 1 The Glenelg Hopkins region ...... 6 Figure 2 Glenelg Hopkins CMA Regional Catchment 6.3 Onground Works ...... 103 Strategy Adaptive Management Program Logic...... 13 6.3.1 Rationale ...... 103 Figure 3 RCS Strategy Relationships ...... 18 6.3.2 Volunteers ...... 103 Figure 4 Soils in the Glenelg Hopkins region...... 25 6.3.3 Landholders ...... 103 Figure 5 Groundwater Flow Systems and Saline Discharge 6.3.4 Developing a Skilled Labour Force . . . . . 104 Sites within the Glenelg Hopkins region ...... 28 6.3.5 Regional Management Action Targets Figure 6 ISC of Hopkins River Catchment - Basin 36 ...... 31 for Onground Works ...... 104 Figure 7 ISC of Glenelg River Catchment - Basin 38...... 33 6.4 Community Engagement and Figure 8 ISC of Portland Coast Basin - Basin 37...... 34 Capacity Building ...... 105 Figure 9 Wetlands in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment ...... 37 6.4.1 Rationale ...... 105 Figure 10 Bioregions in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment ...... 39 6.4.2 Training ...... 105 Figure 11 Gross value of agricultural production 6.4.3 Information Provision ...... 106 1990-91 to 1999-2000 ...... 44 6.4.4 Empowerment ...... 106 Figure 12 Return to assets - South West Monitor 6.4.5 Glenelg Hopkins CMA Farm Project 1970-71 to 2000-01 ...... 46 Communications Plan ...... 106 Figure 13 Real gross margins per DSE Monitor 6.4.6 Regional Management Action Targets Farm Project 1970-71 to 2000-01 ...... 46 for Community Engagement and Figure 14 Change in unemployment by age group 1991 to 1996. . 46 Capacity Building ...... 108 Figure 15 Change in demography from 1986 to 1996 ...... 48 6.5 Monitoring, Evaluation Figure 16 Persons with Qualifications 1986 to 1996...... 48 and Reporting...... 109 Figure 17 Sub-catchments in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment. . . . 50 6.5.1 Rationale ...... 109 Figure 18 Threatened Fauna Sites in the Glenelg 6.5.2 Monitoring ...... 109 Hopkins catchment by sub-catchment ...... 52 6.5.3 Evaluation and Adaptive Figure 19 Threatened Flora Sites in the Glenelg Management ...... 110 Hopkins catchment by sub-catchment ...... 52 6.5.4 Reporting ...... 110 Figure 20 Strategic Planning Hierarchy ...... 96 6.5.5 Regional Management Action Targets Figure 21 Converting the RCS into Prioritised for Monitoring, Evaluation Investment Proposal...... 118 and Reporting ...... 111 TABLES 7 IMPLEMENTING THE STRATEGY ...... 112 Table 1 Action Plans Associated with the 7.1 Natural Resource Management Glenelg Hopkins RCS ...... 20 in the Glenelg Hopkins Regions ...... 112 Table 2 Land area (ha) subject to degradation hazard 7.2 Investment Framework and in the Glenelg Hopkins region...... 26 Prioritisation Process ...... 113 Table 3 Land area (ha) capable of supporting 7.2.1 Investment Principles ...... 113 identified land uses...... 26 7.2.2 Investment Planning Process ...... 116 Table 4 Areas of land estimated to be in each 7.2.3 Investment Tools ...... 119 class of water table depth for CMA regions ...... 28 7.3 Securing Investment Funds...... 119 Table 5 Extent of Vegetation for each Victorian Bioregion . . . . . 38 7.4 Creating Desired Outcomes ...... 120 Table 6 Employment by industry classification - 1991 & 1996 . . 47 7.5 Risk Assessment ...... 120 Table 7 Asset, Value, Priority and Threat Summary of the Glenelg Hopkins catchment ...... 54 8 ACTION PLAN TABLE ...... 124 Table 8 National NRM Outcomes, Matters for Targets and Core Indicators ...... 59 Table 9 Aspirational Targets, Interim Resource ...... APPENDIX 135 Condition Targets and Potential Indicators ...... 61 Appendix 1 The Board and Implementation Table 10 Sub-catchment River Health Priorities ...... 79 Committees of the Table 11 Estimated annual nutrient loads for point and diffuse Glenelg Hopkins CMA ...... 136 sources in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region ...... 80 Appendix 2 How this Strategy Table 12 Matters Addressed in Integration Tool Areas ...... 95 Was Developed ...... 138 Table 13 Bennett’s Evaluation Hierarchy and the Glenelg Hopkins Appendix 3 Description of Acts...... 147 Regional Catchment Strategy ...... 111 Appendix 4 Research Priorities ...... 148 Table 14 Regional Groups: Their Roles and Responsibilities . . . . 114 Appendix 5 Draft Project Proposal Table 15 Investment Principles of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA . . . 116 Assessment Form ...... 151 Table 16 Glenelg Hopkins CMA Risk Assessment Overview . . . . . 121 Table 17 Action Plan Table...... 125 Table 18 Action Achievements in the Original ACRONYMS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT ...... 154 Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy...... 139 Table 19 Key Regional Challenges and Integration END NOTES ...... 155 Tool Rationale ...... 145

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1.0 STRATEGY OVERVIEW

The goal of this Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS) is to help create a more healthy and sustainable relationship between people’s use of land and water resources and the natural environment. The Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority (Glenelg Hopkins CMA) was established in 1997 to set the strategic direction of natural resource activities in the region. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA is a community-based organisation directed by a Board of nine community members and a representative1 from the Department of Primary Industries. A core belief of the Board and the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is that successful catchment management depends on the development of trust, relationships, co-operation and co-ordination among people. In effect, people are our greatest asset and the success of this strategy will ultimately depend on urban and rural people within and outside the region understanding and sharing a vision for a healthier catchment and on them accepting the importance of action and the role they can play.

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1.0 STRATEGY OVERVIEW

This RCS is the primary planning framework for land, water and The Glenelg Hopkins region is home to a number of Aboriginal biodiversity in the region and is an overarching strategic nations that have lived here for tens of thousands of years. In document under which are nested various action plans, such developing the RCS, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA seeks to respect as the River Health Strategy and Salinity Plan. It seeks to create the views of Aboriginal people and offers the following close links with local government and influence the planning statement in the spirit of reconciliation: schemes under their control. It has been developed by people living and working in the area in close consultation with the Indigenous people have traditionally had regional community, other regional organisations and State responsibility for the custodianship of their tribal and Federal Governments. The development of the strategy lands. That responsibility must continue through reflects the commitment of natural resource management partnerships with others to ensure activities to agencies across the region to the principles of integrated regenerate and preserve natural resources within the catchment management, sustainability and adaptive catchment respect Aboriginal culture, stewardship, management. heritage and spirituality.

WHAT IS A HEALTHY CATCHMENT?

A healthy catchment is an ecological system with the capacity to: -Produce clean air - Produce clean water - Support human and animal populations of the catchment with sufficient food, water and habitat resources -Consume wastes produced within the catchment - Support the economic activities of the catchment in a sustainable manner - Resist the effects of environmental disturbance.

A healthy catchment is characterised by: •A flow regime that recognises environmental needs, including periodic droughts and floods. Floodplains, wetlands, estuaries and other natural stream features and coastal assets are maintained by the flow regime. •High biodiversity and a variety of native species. Native vegetation provides habitat for native animal species and corridors for animal migration. Streams support a variety of native aquatic species. Human activities do not threaten the viability of any indigenous species. •Adequate habitat for a diversity of native species provided by the presence of snags in waterways, tree hollows and other natural features of the ecosystem. •Nutrient and hydrological cycles that are maintained. Nutrients and water are produced, stored and converted to different forms through natural ecosystem processes. Nutrient levels are managed at levels the catchment can absorb. • Relatively low sedimentation levels in water within the catchment. Toxicants in waterways remain at naturally occurring levels. • Stable riparian zones and soils. Productive soils are maintained by vegetation cover. • Use of renewable energies to support activities within the catchment. Low carbon emissions from the burning of fossil fuels. • Sustainable human population and economic activity levels.

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Lying south of the Great Dividing Range, the Glenelg Hopkins region contains areas of scenic beauty, magnificent and dramatic coastline, superb national parks and rich biodiversity. There is an abundance of arable land, secure surface water storages, large reserves of underground water and a broad agricultural production base. The region attracts large numbers of people to its world-class tourist attractions and boasts a variety of educational and research institutions. One of the world’s great deepwater ports is located in Portland and the region is strategically located with excellent road access to Melbourne and Adelaide. The region covers approximately 2.6 million hectares (ha) and extends from close to Ballarat in the Central Highlands of Victoria, west to the South Australian border and south to the coast. The southern two thirds of the region are characterised by flat volcanic plains while the northern third is dominated by the Grampians, the Dundas Tablelands and the Black Ranges. Major cities and towns include Warrnambool, Hamilton, Portland, Ballarat, Ararat, Casterton, Coleraine, Port Fairy and Beaufort. The boundaries of the region include marine and coastal waters out to the State limit of 5.5 kilometres.

Figure 1 ~ The Glenelg Hopkins region

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1.0 STRATEGY OVERVIEW

The Glenelg Hopkins region contains a range of natural assets habitat. Many of the region’s plants and animals have evolved in the form of its biodiversity, waterways and wetlands, soils, within a narrow range of temperature and rainfall variability; forests and coastal areas. These natural assets support a unique significant changes in this variation have the potential to quality of life. Three of the most important industries in South change available habitats. West Victoria - agriculture, fisheries and tourism - depend on the maintenance of a healthy natural resource base. The region has three major river drainage basins - the Hopkins, Glenelg and Portland Coast. The lower section of the Glenelg The region is home to a number of threatened species of flora River is heritage listed for its environmental significance. Salt- and fauna found on land and in aquatic environments. The wedge estuaries at the mouth of rivers entering the sea are extensive list of rare and threatened species includes the environmentally significant. Extensive wetlands are a feature Brolga, Red-tailed Black Cockatoo, Orange Bellied Parrot, of the region and provide significant habitat for native Glenelg Spiny Crayfish, Yarra Pygmy Perch, Eastern Barred biodiversity. The region contains substantial reserves of Bandicoot, Striped Legless Lizard, Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby, groundwater with varying salinities. Three regional Spot-tailed Quoll, numerous species of frogs, Powerful Owl, groundwater systems underlie the catchment - the Otway, Magpie Goose, Great Egret and Swamp Skink. Threatened flora Murray and Highland - with other shallow local aquifers in includes numerous species of grasses, trees, orchids, grevilleas, existence. various other species and entire ecological vegetation classes. Threatened marine species found along the coast of the Threats to regional waterways and waterbodies are similar to Glenelg Hopkins region include the Southern Right Whale, that facing biodiversity. Salinity has the potential to change Great White Shark, Blue Whale and Australian Fur Seal. the range of habitats available to aquatic species. Clearing and unrestricted stock access has reduced riparian vegetation The major threat to biodiversity is the destruction of habitat. along rivers and wetlands, heightening processes of erosion Extensive clearing of native vegetation in the years since and contributing to declining water quality. Introduced pest European settlement has drastically reduced the extent and plant and animal species threaten a range of water assets. quality of habitat for native species. While salinity has been Activities associated with ongoing agricultural production, recognised as a natural feature of the region, extensive such as water diversion, nutrient enrichment and pesticide clearing has greatly increased the areas affected and has the contamination, threaten the health of natural water assets. potential, if unchecked, to further reduce suitable habitat in aquatic and terrestrial environments. The region is considered one of the areas most at risk from rising water tables and dryland salinity. Introduced plants and animals also impact “Extensive clearing of native vegetation in heavily on native biodiversity. Rabbits threaten entire the years since European settlement has landscape values. They have been identified as major contributors to soil erosion and as grazing threats to drastically reduced the extent and quality endangered species. They compete with native species for of habitat for native species.” habitat resources and artificially lift the carrying capacity of land systems for other predators, such as the fox. Foxes pose an enormous threat to native wildlife through their predatory behavior. The healthy and productive soils of the region are a major natural asset and support not only native vegetation but also Recently identified infestations of European Carp have the a world-scale agricultural sector. Threats to soil health are potential to severely affect the quality of aquatic habitats. salinity, soil acidification, erosion, compaction and loss of Environmental weeds invade native vegetation and adversely essential soil biota. Parks, reserves and forests within the affect the regeneration of indigenous flora and fauna. catchment are a major natural asset that provides a refuge for Outcomes associated with agricultural activities, such as the native biodiversity and support regional economic activity. nutrient enrichment of waterways, also can have a severe Major threats to this asset are salinity, pest plant and animal impact by increasing the occurrence of algal blooms. Within invasion, increasing visitor numbers, pollution and disease. marine environments, the greatest threats to biodiversity are related to activities in the catchment. These activities result in poor quality run-off that degrades the habitat, other forms of pollution and the over-exploitation of resources. Changing climate patterns also have the ability to further degrade

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The coastal areas of the catchment have no parallel. Towering Establishing regionally appropriate targets will guide the cliffs, extensive dune systems and unique inter-tidal areas actions to help reach this balance. This strategy identifies six support a variety of species and represent a world-class tourist key regional challenges and associated targets to focus action attraction. Major threats are inappropriate development, pest over the next five years. The first of these challenges - Regional plant and animal invasion and urban encroachment. Sustainability - is an overarching theme as significant changes in the health of the catchment will not be achieved unless the This brief overview of the region’s major natural assets and activities, culture and economy that drive degrading processes threats highlights the need to strive for a balance between the are addressed in a holistic fashion. Three of the other way people within the catchment use these assets to generate challenges focus on the protection of priority assets in the wealth and the integrity of the natural environment. The loss of form of biodiversity, waterways and coastal areas. The species, industries or social opportunities because of avoidable remaining challenges focus on the priority threats facing the resource decline diminishes the quality of life for present and region in the form of soil decline and salinity and pest plant future generations. Over the next 50 years, there is a and animal infestations. tremendous opportunity to ‘generate’ the resources and the commitment to restore the catchment to a healthier level of functioning. To achieve this, we must find ways to reduce the impact of industries on the environment, provide appropriate habitat opportunities for native species, improve water quality, manage parks and forests appropriately and protect soil and coastal assets.

Protecting assets is a high priority.

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1.0 STRATEGY OVERVIEW

1. REGIONAL SUSTAINABILITY

Aspirational Target: An improvement in regional sustainability as reflected in key indicators by 2050*.

Achieving a more sustainable region is a key goal of the many groups across the region. Unlike some other areas of Australia where substantial land-use change will be required to meet environmental objectives, strategic actions and investment in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment to develop best practice within existing land-use patterns can still make a substantial difference and help build sustainable industries and lifestyles. Agricultural production makes use of more than 80% of land within the catchment and, therefore, actions to improve the sustainability of agricultural practices are recommended. Recreational and commercial fishing have been identified as important economic drivers and are a focus of this section of the RCS. A reputation as a producer of environmentally sensitive products will open doors in many markets in the future and provide a competitive advantage to local producers. Managing land-use change will be vital and there is a significant need to revegetate the catchment through commercial and environmentally focused projects. The challenge for the region is to make use of existing forestry expertise, build tourism potential through restoring and enhancing the natural resource base, ensure the capacity to adopt new technology is built and manage land-use change. Ways this challenge can be met include implementing a regional Environmental Management System initiative, undertaking priority research, developing regional accreditation processes, supporting industry groups to develop and implement their own natural resource management plans, expanding farm forestry, creating partnerships with the tourism industry and implementing the South West Sustainability Blueprint.

2. BIODIVERSITY

Aspirational Target: No net decline and, where appropriate, an increase in native regional biodiversity as measured through key indicators by 2050.

The region is custodian of many rare, unique and threatened plant and animal species. Historically, the region’s record of “Water quantity and quality is preserving biodiversity has been poor. A key element in preserving biodiversity is the retention and linking of remnant vital in sustaining human and native vegetation and provision of appropriate reserves. environmental health.” Improving the ecological health of waterways and wetlands also will do much to provide appropriate habitat for rare or threatened native species. State and Federal Governments regard protection of biodiversity as a priority. The challenge for the region is to significantly contribute to this priority by building on the existing regional framework provided by legislation and programs, undertaking appropriate research and planning and striving for better integration and understanding of biodiversity across government, industry, agricultural, community and local government actions. Ways this challenge can be met are by implementing the Glenelg Hopkins Native Vegetation Plan, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Salinity Plan, bioregion conservation strategies and regional Flora and Fauna Guarantee Action Statements. Additional measures suggested include constructing a wetland management plan, supporting ongoing research and raising community and industry awareness of the value of biodiversity.

* Detail of the process of setting appropriate indicators are described in Section 4 of the Strategy

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3. WATERWAY HEALTH AND 5. PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

WATER QUALITY Aspirational Target: By 2050, there will be a net decline in impacts of pest plant and animal infestation on private and Aspirational Target: A net increase in water quality across public land and in aquatic systems as measured by key the region and an equitable allocation of water between indicators. environmental, social and economic uses by 2050 as measured by key indicators. Pest plants and animals pose some of the most significant threats to regional assets. Appropriate pest management The objective of this challenge area is to maintain and enhance actions will dramatically increase the chance of successful the ecological health of the region’s water resources and outcomes for a variety of natural resource programs. As a waterways while maintaining economic and social region, the challenge is to develop effective partnerships development. Water quantity and quality is vital in sustaining across government agencies, industries, community groups human and environmental health. High quality fresh water has and landholders. Together these groups can support co- many beneficial uses that need to be protected. The challenge ordinated action, implement and refine existing strategies and for the region is to protect the quality of fresh water develop other pest plant and animal strategies as required, use resources, restore the health of rivers and wetlands, manage newly developed decision support systems to review pest groundwater, drainage and floodplains in an environmentally priorities, continue to develop rapid response programs to appropriate manner, find new uses for wastewater and share meet new infestation threats, such as that posed by European water equitably. Ways this challenge can be met are by Carp, and continue education, extension and enforcement implementing the Glenelg Hopkins River Health Strategy and activities. Ongoing research into new control methods and the Nutrient Management Plan, identifying and putting in place effectiveness of existing approaches and strategies is vital. appropriate management structures for wetlands, developing Ways this challenge can be met include implementing the streamflow and groundwater management plans, supporting Glenelg Hopkins Weed and Rabbit Action Plans, ongoing ongoing research, raising awareness and helping create new research and awareness-raising and implementing predator markets. control measures. 4. SOIL DECLINE AND SALINITY 6. COASTAL AREAS Aspirational Target: An improvement in soil health as Aspirational Target: As measured through key indicators, measured by key indicators by 2050. the coastal areas of the catchment in 2050 will retain their Healthy and productive soils are the basic building block of the unique flora and fauna and places of natural beauty while regional economy. Intensive agricultural production can lead supporting a range of diverse and sustainable industries. to soil structure breakdown and increased erosion. The Glenelg Hopkins catchment contains some of Australia’s Contamination of soil with residual compounds from agro- most spectacular and pristine coastal environments. These are chemicals and soil acidification are emerging issues in some unique assets that have been inappropriately managed in the areas. Salinity is the greatest threat to soil productivity in parts past. There is a need to build recognition of the coastal, of the catchment. The challenge for the region is to develop a estuarine and marine environment as the ‘bottom end’ of the greater understanding of threats to soil productivity and catchment and, therefore, the area that suffers most from the implement appropriate remediation measures. Ways this effects of poor catchment management. The challenge for the challenge can be met include developing a regional Soil Action region is to establish appropriate planning structures and Plan, increasing community knowledge of soil acidification, action programs to protect significant economic, social and supporting ongoing research, management of erosion sites and environmental coastal assets. Ways this challenge can be met implementing the Glenelg Hopkins Salinity Plan. are by implementing the South West Victoria Coastal Action Plan, local area Coastal Action Plans and the Coast Action- Coastcare program and supporting ongoing research and awareness-raising.

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1.0 STRATEGY OVERVIEW

To facilitate outcomes across the six challenge areas, a Onground Works: Facilitating onground outcomes to address series of key integration tools have been identified. These a range of environmentally threatening processes is central to tools focus on the social aspects of catchment this section of the strategy. Onground works will be completed management in that they seek to identify the information through a mix of volunteer and professional labour and need individuals, groups and organisations need to better plan to be supported by a range of funding, research, training and for management of environments under their control, the administrative initiatives. The task for natural resource type of partnerships that need to be built to ensure managers is to clearly identify priority works, undertake success, who will undertake the onground works required appropriate planning and management activities, undertake and the best ways to engage people and how to build their onground works themselves where required, provide training ability to act. opportunities for community and agency staff and inform individuals, private companies and other organisations of The tools are: funding arrangements. Strategic Planning: Co-ordinated strategic planning results in Community Engagement and Capacity Building: A catchment effective resource distribution and less duplication of effort. community that understands, supports and participates Planning must strive to reflect current community values and actively in natural resource management is the most powerful ensure land is used appropriately. Formal natural resource tool for achieving change. Therefore, methods that bring management planning has been based on an issues approach. about greater engagement with the community and build their Planning at smaller geographic scales - e.g. local government, capacity must be implemented. This should include capacity river basin, sub-catchment, Landcare group and farm level - building and engagement within and between government offers a powerful tool to integrate actions, involve local departments and agencies. communities and provide a co-ordinated works plan. Well- informed decisions and strategies result in better outcomes Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting: Monitoring and are important for making investment decisions and catchment health and careful evaluation of programs allows identifying risks and costs. Therefore, the region must continue measurement of the effectiveness of actions and to make to develop widely accessible planning resources that reflect necessary changes in a continuous cycle of improvement. current scientific knowledge and research. Reporting the outcomes of monitoring and evaluation back to the community helps create an understanding of the Regional Partnerships: The effective management of natural effectiveness of actions and future requirements. resources will involve creating and managing working partnerships within and between State and Federal Governments, local government, local communities (including indigenous communities), community groups, industry and research and educational organisations. Responsibility for natural resource management achievements are divided among these groups and it is only through collaboration and development of a community of practice that effective outcomes will be achieved.

Community engagement. Photo: Gill Fry

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The RCS will be implemented by assigning roles and Principle 5 ~ Building Regional Capacity responsibilities and implementing an Investment Plan based Investment should recognise the need to build the capacity of on the following principles: the region through training, education, research and extension activities. Principle 1 ~ Meeting Community Expectation Community expectations that valued economic, Principle 6 ~ Accountability and Transparency environmental and social assets will be protected and The expenditure of government funds places an onus on the enhanced, and that a baseline level of service will be provided region to be fully accountable. Accountability can be based on across the catchment, is a key investment principle. outcomes, such as extent of areas rehabilitated or number of people receiving training courses, and should include Principle 2 ~ Priority Knowledge-based Asset Protection and indicators of catchment health. Investment decision processes Enhancement must be transparent and defensible. An asset-based approach to investment is required. This involves a detailed knowledge and valuation of assets to allow Major ways to achieve specified objectives are incentive, prioritisation. enforcement and suasion methods. A list of key actions to be undertaken is in Section 8 of the strategy. Appendix 1 details Principle 3 ~ Risk Analysis the current membership of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board Risk analysis should be a principle underlying regional and Implementation Committees while Appendix 2 describes investment. Risk analysis should be based on the best available how the strategy was developed. information to determine the likelihood of events occurring and the magnitude of their consequences.

Principle 4 ~ Multiple Benefits Investment in natural resources will often have benefits across a range of key regional challenges. Investment should favor those projects or actions that provide the greatest multiple benefits.

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1.0 STRATEGY OVERVIEW

Figure 2 ~ Glenelg Hopkins CMA Regional Catchment Strategy Adaptive Management Program Logic

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2.0 INTRODUCTION

The management of natural resources in Victoria has changed significantly in recent years. Fundamental reforms have seen changes to institutional arrangements, statutory powers and pricing policies. Change has been driven by a growing awareness of the seriousness of environmental decline and its likely impact, increasing community expectations of the condition of the natural resource base, community interest and desire for involvement in decisions which affect natural resources and a recognition that environmental considerations will play a growing role in consumer purchasing preferences. The roles, responsibilities and priorities of Federal, State and local governments and local communities have been affected by these changes. There has been a growing recognition that catchments2 and regions are the most appropriate scales for managing natural resource issues, setting objectives and achieving lasting environmental improvement. The partnership approach suggested by the Natural Resource Standing Committee is based on devolved authority and empowered regional communities1.

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2.1 THE VICTORIAN CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK In Victoria, the Catchment and Land Protection Act (1994) establishes a framework for the integrated and co-ordinated management and protection of catchments. The framework was created to maintain and enhance the long-term productivity of land and water resources, establish monitoring processes and encourage the participation of landholders, resource managers and other community members in catchment management. To achieve this, the legislation made provision for the appointment of Catchment and Land Protection Boards (C&LP) across Victoria. In 1997, Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs) came into being and, in most instances, assumed the roles and responsibilities of the former C&LP Boards. Under the Act, CMA Board members appointed by the Minister must reflect the major land and water uses in the region and have between them experience and knowledge of land protection, water resource management, primary industry, environmental conservation and local government. In addition to these authorities, the Victorian Catchment Management Council was established as an advisory body. Major outcomes sought by the State-wide frameworks are: • Better, stronger communities aimed at improving social and economic well-being across Victoria • Prevention, stabilisation and reversal of trends in salinity, particularly dryland salinity, affecting the sustainability of production, conservation of biological diversity and the viability of infrastructure • Protection of water environments (waterways, wetlands, lakes and estuaries) from further degradation by protecting and rehabilitating existing water quality, flow and aquatic habitats •A reversal across the entire landscape of the long-term decline in the extent and quality of native vegetation, leading to a net gain • Maintenance and, where necessary, restoration of the ecological processes and the biodiversity dependent on terrestrial, fresh water and marine environments • Maintenance or improvement of the present diversity of species and ecological communities and their viability in each bioregion • An increase in the viability of threatened species and in the extent and quality of threatened ecological communities.

Consolidated outcomes sought from these are: • Better engagement of communities in improving social, environmental and economic well-being across catchments in Victoria • Prevention, stabilisation and reversal of trends affecting the ‘Triple Bottom Line’, particularly salinity, water quality, terrestrial and aquatic native biodiversity, including natural ecosystems, native vegetation and threatened flora and fauna.

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2.2 THE GLENELG HOPKINS CMA

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA was established in 1997 to be responsible for natural resources within the catchment. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA is charged with the responsibility of preparing and implementing a Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS) in close consultation with the community. The major functions of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, besides preparing and implementing a RCS, are to formulate plans, promote co-operation in natural resource management, provide advice and recommendations to the relevant Minister and promote community awareness.

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA is governed by a Board of community representatives, who were selected by the Minister for Environment and Conservation following a public call for persons with skills and experience in catchment issues and the catchment area. The Board comprises 10 members with knowledge or experience of primary production, natural resource management, use of water resources, conservation of ecosystems, public and business administration and regional economic development. The Board is responsible for strategic land and water management in the region. It sets the vision and strategic direction and evaluates the effectiveness of outcomes. The work of the Board and the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is supported by Implementation Committees comprising of community members and other regional stakeholders. Implementation Committees help develop focused works programs and are the conduits for further community input. They have a major decision-making role in setting priorities for work and the specific activities to be undertaken in land and water management in the region2. Appendix 1 details the current membership of the Board and the Implementation Committees.

Over its five years of operation, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA has grown substantially, greatly improved strategic planning across the region and fostered actions to improve the health of the catchment. Its annual budget has increased from $680,000 in 1997/98 to more than $10 million in 2001/2002. Strategic management of the region’s natural resources has been enhanced through the completion and implementation in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE)✢ of action plans, such as the Native Vegetation Plan, Nutrient Management Plan, Rabbit and Weed Action Plans and Communications Plan. Sand management guidelines for the Glenelg River have been finalised and a Stressed Rivers Project undertaken. An integrated catchment management plan for an area east of Ararat was developed and a number of Landcare group Action Plans constructed. Strong partnerships with the community through sponsorship, extension, education, training and Waterwatch activities have increased involvement in natural resource management. It has helped sponsor and direct regionally relevant research and supported the activities of landholders seeking to improve the health of their land. In 2000 and 2001, community partner projects within the Waterways program saw 183 projects undertaken, resulting in 280 kilometres of protective fencing, 202 kilometres of direct seeding and 235,310 seedlings being established. Within the Land and Biodiversity program, funding from the Natural Heritage Trust (NHT) allowed 57 projects to be undertaken. This resulted in 93 kilometres of protective fencing, 63 kilometres of direct seeding and 81,000 seedlings3.

✢ In December 2002 it was announced that the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) was to be split into the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE). At the time of finalising this document roles and responsibilities within the new departments were still being clarified. As such the acronym DPI/DSE is used to describe roles covered by the former NRE.

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2.3 THE VISION AND OBJECTIVES OF THE GLENELG HOPKINS CMA BOARD

This vision highlights the need to achieve a balance between Vision statement: use of resources to generate wealth and protection of the environment. It emphasises that the regional community and Striving towards a healthy and sustainable the behaviors it adopts and supports are the key to achieving relationship between the natural a better environmental future. It recognises that the long regional history of using natural resources - e.g. land and environment and the community’s use of water - for economic and social purposes will be ongoing, but land and water resources that change will have to occur. Already the region is a leader in the field of Landcare and in community management of natural resources. Through regional actions and initiatives, social capacity must be built to achieve the required balanced outcomes. The objectives of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board are to: • Represent the interests of the community in natural In moving toward the vision, the region seeks to create a resource management healthy catchment in which the integrity of soils, water, flora • Achieve integrated catchment management and fauna is maintained or enhanced. In 50 years, the region • Act as a steward for the natural resource base seeks to have a healthy catchment with innovative and competitive industries flourishing as a result of their • Create effective partnerships sustainable use of natural resources to generate wealth. A • Develop appropriate action plans catchment in which native biodiversity is able to thrive and • Provide regional leadership in natural resource where clean fresh water is available for environmental, management economic and social uses. A catchment where the health of • Reduce soil erosion soils and other environmental assets is protected from threats, •Improve water quality such as salinity, and where the impacts of pest plants and • Improve wetland health animals is greatly reduced. Above all, the region seeks to • Improve control of salinity create a catchment that is home to a self-sustaining pro-active • Increase extent of vegetation cover community committed to the ecologically sustainable • Protect significant remnant vegetation management of its natural resources and enjoying an • Protect and enhance biodiversity improved quality of life. • Reduce the impacts of pest plants and animals • Improve river health This vision is closely aligned with that of DPI/DSE, which is •Improve soil health ‘communities that prosper through the sustainable use of their 4 • Protect and enhance the coastal and marine environment’ . The alternative vision for the future if we ‘do environments nothing’ to tackle the declining health of the natural resource • Support the growth of sustainable regional industries base is grim. The region can expect salinity to decimate much • Encourage prioritised, targeted and effective research of the productive capacity of the catchment, destroying not • Increase industry involvement in natural resource only productive land and water resources but also management communities and infrastructure. The region can expect the • Effectively monitor the health of the catchment current mix of native plants and animals to continue to decline and be replaced by introduced pests. The region also •Effectively monitor program outcomes can expect to see current industries wither and quality of life • Encourage the uptake of sustainable farming practices decline. • Increase the involvement of indigenous, urban and rural communities •Work with schools •Work with Landcare • Achieve best management practice in planning, contracting, licensing and granting.

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Figure 3 ~ RCS Strategy Relationships

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2.0 INTRODUCTION

2.4 THE PURPOSE OF THIS STRATEGY

The Catchment and Land Protection Act introduced the concept of a Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS), which is described as a document that sets out how the catchments of a region are to be managed. An RCS is the primary integrated planning framework for land, water and biodiversity in a CMA region and is an overarching strategic document under which are nested various action plans and strategies. This strategy aims to integrate natural resource management across the region, including marine and coastal waters out to the State limit of 5.5 kilometres. It also provides a foundation for investment decisions to improve natural resource outcomes within the region. The strategy does not directly establish investment priorities, but a process for establishing priorities. (See Section 7) The RCS is a document of critical importance to the region as it provides the opportunity to set a co-ordinated plan for improving catchment health and management. It is the vehicle through which the vision, priorities and objectives of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board, the DPI/DSE, other partners and the community can be achieved. Appendix 2 describes the process of how this strategy was developed. Figure 3 summarises the relationship between Commonwealth, State and regional level plans, the RCS and sub-strategies. Appendix 3 summarises the major Acts that influence natural resource management in the region.

The development of this strategy has been guided by and reflects the Glenelg Hopkins CMA’s commitment to community consultation, integrated catchment management, partnerships, sustainability and adaptive management.

2.5 THE PURPOSE OF ASSOCIATED ACTION PLANS AND DOCUMENTS

The RCS is a high-level plan that sets a strategic overview for natural resource management within the catchment. It aims to integrate action plans constructed by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and those of other bodies with responsibility for natural resource management. Under the broad policy umbrella provided by the RCS, detailed action plans for priority land and water issues are developed. The action plans that accompany this document focus at an operational level on the identification and valuation of specific assets, such as rivers or native vegetation, and the major threats likely to impact on these, such as salinity. Where appropriate, they undertake detailed cost-benefit analysis to determine priority works areas, document major assumptions, detail the trade-offs involved and establish specific resource condition targets. A summary of the major regional scale action plans constructed by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and referred to in this strategy is included in the following table. Also detailed is information regarding two major documents constructed in support of the RCS, the Health of the Catchment Report and the Future Directions for Integrated Catchment Research in South West Victoria. Details of Federal and State strategies and other regional organisation plans can be found in the appropriate sections of the document. The need to review existing plans or construct new plans to address specific assets (soils), threats (climate change) or opportunities (capacity building) also is identified in the body of the document.

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Table 1 ~ Action Plans, Strategies and Reports Associated with the Glenelg Hopkins RCS

Plan/Strategy/Report Description River Health Strategy The Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy (RHS) is the overarching document for all aspects of surface water management for riverine environments within the Glenelg Hopkins region. The RHS assesses and integrates all river health issues to ensure that actions provide multiple benefit outcomes. Sub-plans that underpin the RHS are either specific issues-based, such as the Nutrient Management Plan, or waterway-based, such as the Surry River Restoration Plan. Investment in river health in the region is based on the framework outlined in the Victorian River Health Strategy. Each sub-catchment has been assessed for threats and risks to each valuable asset. The actions are based on maintaining these assets and, where resources are available, enhancing the values of high and moderate value reaches as per the prioritisation framework. The RHS sets programs for strategic planning, research and investigation, communications, onground works and monitoring and evaluation.

Salinity Plan The Glenelg Hopkins Region Salinity Plan (2002) indicates that salinity currently costs the region more than $44 million annually, with costs likely to increase as the affected areas expand. Salinity already affects more than 27,000 ha in the region, impacting heavily on agricultural production and environmental, heritage and infrastructure assets. The Salinity Plan identifies priority sub-catchments for action. These were determined on the basis of salinity hazard, distribution of assets and opportunities for intervention. The aspirational target set for the Salinity Plan is: that surface and groundwater salinity levels do not impact on key regional assets. The principles for salinity management put forward in the plan are: 1) recognise and understand that saline ecosystems are a natural feature of the region; 2) minimise the risk of salinity to assets; 3) address salinity in an integrated catchment management framework; 4) ensure salinity management provides social, economic and environmental benefits to the region; 5) ensure flexibility and innovation through a process of continual improvement.

Native Vegetation The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Native Vegetation Plan identifies priority remnant vegetation assets, particularly Plan those areas that are uncommon or contain rare or threatened species. The plan sets forward a number of key actions and targets and highlights the need for community engagement, ongoing research, partnerships with local government and other agencies and effective monitoring of the plan against targets. Implementing the plan involves developing cost-sharing and incentive schemes, enforcing native vegetation controls and developing regional guidelines for native vegetation retention based on the net gain principle. Interim targets for native species revegetation are: 1) increase the overall cover of native vegetation to 30% of the catchment; 2) increase the cover of depleted EVCs to at least 15% of their pre-European vegetation cover by 2030; 3) double the cover of endangered EVCs by 2030.

Weed Action Plan The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan seeks to reflect State and Commonwealth approaches and implement corresponding outcomes at a regional level. The plan builds on the successful components of existing pest plant arrangements within the catchment to: 1) inform all stakeholders in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment about the economic, social and environmental impact of weeds and how to minimise this impact; 2) prevent the development and spread of new weed problems; 3) ensure early detection of, and rapid response to, new weed problems; 4) achieve a significant reduction in the impact of existing weed infestations; 5) establish working partnerships to ensure cost-effective weed management; 6) promote the evaluation of weed management in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment.

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2.0 INTRODUCTION

Table 1 ~ Action Plans, Strategies and Reports Associated with the Glenelg Hopkins RCS, continued

Plan/Strategy/Report Description

Rabbit Action Plan The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Rabbit Action Plan is based on the strategic principles that: 1) rabbit control is not an end in itself, but a foundation for achieving other outcomes in natural resource management; 2) a community-based compliance program requires a broad spectrum of approaches ranging from extension through to enforcement; 3) group control schemes are more cost-effective than isolated individual approaches; 4) destroying rabbit warrens is the key leverage in managing rabbits; 5) resources must be allocated for performance monitoring; 6) support for community action should be in line with government investment principles The overall objective of the Rabbit Action Plan is to increase the area under long-term rabbit control by approximately 40,000ha (27%) over the next five years.

Communications Plan The Communications Plan produced as part of this RCS provides the overarching framework for communicating natural resource issues within the catchment. The plan has adopted a range of themes with indicative actions and tactics for achieving objectives and overall goals. The themes are: 1) effectively communicating the roles and responsibilities of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA; 2) effective communication with partners in catchment and natural resource management; 3) effective communication with organisations and groups involved in catchment and natural resource management; 4) effective communication with State and Federal agencies; 5) effective communication of natural resource issues with catchment communities; 6) research and review of information needs for effective communication of catchment and natural resource issues.

Health of the The Health of the Catchment Report was produced to help guide the development of the RCS. Catchment Report It provides an overview of regional geomorphology, soils, waterways, riparian vegetation, groundwater, wetlands, biodiversity, parks and pest plant and animal infestations. The major findings in the report are that there has been a significant decline in regional biodiversity in the years since European settlement, the majority of waterways are in poor condition, wetlands have declined in number and in quality, salinity and soil acidification are emerging threats and pest plant and animal infestations impact on a range of catchment assets.

Future Directions for This report documents the proceedings of a Research and Investigations Workshop involving key Integrated Catchment stakeholders held in June, 2002. The process of identifying research needs and priorities emphasised Research in integrated, sustainable catchment management through partnership with government, research agencies South West Victoria and the community. Research was favored which is achievable, cost-effective, accessible and yields economic, social and environmental outcomes. The research programs and projects identified are listed in Appendix 4.

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3.0 CATCHMENT DESCRIPTION

The Glenelg Hopkins region covers approximately 2.6 million hectares and extends from close to Ballarat in the Central Highlands of Victoria, west to the South Australian border and south to the coast. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA adjoins the Wimmera, Corangamite and North Central CMAs. Resources such as groundwater, surface water in the case of diversions from the Glenelg River and ecological vegetation3 classes link the regions.

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3.1 LANDSCAPE HISTORY

Two great periods of vulcanism and human settlement have summer activities. Eels and fish were caught in traps, which helped shape much of the landscape of the Glenelg Hopkins were major engineering achievements, in wetlands such as region. The first period of vulcanism beginning two to four Lake Condah. At the time of European settlement, some million years ago formed the basis of the extensive plains, Aboriginal groups in the region lived in substantial settlements wetlands and U-shaped river valleys characteristic of parts of comprising clusters of up to 30 beehive shaped huts. Large the region today. More recent volcanic activity culminating as gatherings of people occurred at localities that experienced a recently as seven thousand years ago created the iconic scoria seasonal abundance of food, particularly the fresh and salt cones and stony rises visible across the southern part of the water wetlands that were a prominent and important landscape. Within the north of the catchment, the faulting landscape feature of the region. These occasions were times of and uplifting of marine and non-marine sandstones and great ceremonial importance where trading and social mudstones laid down approximately 400 million years ago arrangements were made. Evidence suggests that Aboriginal created the spectacular tilted plateaus and steep escarpments people occupied parts of the Glenelg Hopkins region for at of the majestic Grampians National Park while the Dundas least 11,000 years and probably more than 40,000 years9. Tablelands are the eroded remnants of a major plain formed Thousands of ancient and more recent Aboriginal sites and approximately two to five million years ago5. places can be found throughout the region. Evidence of Aboriginal land use in the region includes scarred trees, stone At the time of the first contact between Europeans and arrangements, mounds, rock shelters, stone engraving sites, Aborigines, South West Victoria was occupied by a number of middens, rock paintings, surface scatters, fish traps, burial Aboriginal nations, including the Gundidj-mara, Kirrae- places, stone house sites, quarries and axe grinding places10. Whurrung, Jardwadjali, Djab-whurrung, Whaturrung and Djargurd-whurrung6. At least 10 different Aboriginal language The Dutton family, who engaged in whaling, and the Henty groups occurred in South West Victoria and they are often family, who were involved in whaling and pastoral activities classified on the basis of their environmental associations7. around Portland Bay, are recognised as the first European settlers in the region. Further European settlement was rapid. Clans closely associated with the ocean were very mobile in the Pastoralists moved in with stock to take up runs, and by the summer months and large numbers would congregate in the end of the 1840s many of the areas suitable for grazing were nearby hinterlands to exploit concentrations of daisy yam, occupied. The arrival of Europeans impacted heavily on the kangaroo and emu. Their base camps were in coastal swamps, traditional landowners. Aboriginal groups were drastically such as the Tower Hill and Moyne swamps, which provided reduced in number by disease, violence and the loss of easy access to nearby forest. Temporary camps were located in important environmental and cultural assets. Despite superior the dunes where seabirds, crayfish, shellfish, fish and seals European weapons and numbers, traditional landowners were harvested. In autumn, the coastal clans moved to camp undertook a sustained and co-ordinated war of resistance that beside rivers and streams where, as semi-sedentary groups, slowed the pace of settlement11. they exploited an abundance of eels and other fish. Eels were harvested using complex stone or wooden weirs erected across rivers or streams. Stone weirs can still be found in many regional streams. During winter, coastal clans gravitated to places with ample water, fuel and food supply8.

Aborigines living away from the coast have been described as plains people. Their most common form of campsite was an artificially-constructed earthen mound occupied on a seasonal basis and usually located close to rivers, streams or wetlands. In summer, the plains people used fire as a hunting aid. Bird hunting and communal kangaroo hunting were important

The Grampians

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Cattle and sheep grazing began on the open woodlands, slowed the rate of land clearing, yet the level of degradation supported by many native grass species, including kangaroo, that has occurred means a sustained and co-ordinated effort wallaby, weeping, blown and tussock grasses. On the will be required over the coming decades to preserve and tablelands, heavy grazing soon resulted in the destabilisation of restore the health of the catchment. An overview of the native pasture and soil. Less than 10 years after settlement, current state of the environment in the Glenelg Hopkins landslips and erosion were common. The loss of tussocks in the catchment is provided in the related Health of the Catchment drainage lines and increased run-off began the process of gully Report. A summary of this information is presented here. erosion still evident in the region today. The mining boom of the early 1850s resulted in an almost ten-fold population increase and forests around mining centres were rapidly 3.2 CLIMATE depleted to meet the needs of the industry. The decline of the The region’s climate is characterised by hot, dry summers and mining industry in the early 1860s and the subsequent cool, wet winters. Average annual rainfall ranges from 500 mm employment crisis increased pressure to open more areas for per year near Lake Bolac to more than 910mm per year in the closer settlement. New land was rapidly ‘selected’ by new Cobboboonee Forest, west of Heywood and The Grampians14. arrivals and squatters became established on their runs. The region has high winter rainfall. A notable feature of the Continuing demand saw areas such as Crown land, hilly regional climate is the consistency of rainfall. 700mm is the regions, swamps and forests being subdivided. The Land Act of average rainfall and over the past 120 years there has only 1884 resulted in large-scale tree clearance; in order to obtain been two years with less than 350mm and 2 years with more freehold title, blocks had to have their trees ring-barked or than 1,000mm. By Australian standards this is remarkably felled12. consistent. Average annual temperatures range from 4oC to The passing of the Closer Settlement Act in 1898 began about 27oC in the north, with January and February being the breaking up the large squatter estates of the region. Smaller hottest months15. Climate change projections developed by the farmers were encouraged to clear the land, but soil limitations CSIRO suggest that in the future the region will have slightly and the influx of rabbits dramatically affected farming success. higher average annual temperatures, with coastal areas being Soldier settlement schemes were introduced after both World least affected by this change. Warming will be greatest in Wars, further increasing land clearance pressures. The Closer spring and least in winter. Overall, it is predicted average Settlement Board encouraged mixed farming enterprises after annual rainfall will decrease slightly with less summer and available timber had been cleared and milled and remnants autumn rain. Projections also indicate episodic heavy rainfall burned. Advances in farm machinery, economic pressure to events will increase in frequency16. make use of all available land on farms and taxation minimisation schemes advanced the rate of clearing. Between 3.3 REGIONAL SOILS 1972 and 1987, it is estimated 40% of the remaining native vegetation on freehold land in the Glenelg Hopkins region was Within the Glenelg Hopkins region there are 49 different soil 13 cleared . types. They vary in texture, structure, fertility and drainage characteristics. This large variation is due to different ages, The effects of land clearing on the health of the catchment has geology of the parent materials and the climatic conditions been recognised since the earliest days of settlement. However, under which the soils were formed. The following map provides it is only in more recent times that remedial measures have a detailed overview of these soils. been attempted. The Soil Conservation Authority began works in the catchment in the mid-1950s to re-establish trees on More than 80% of the soils in the region have chemical or eroded and salt-affected farmlands. The first Landcare group physical limitations affecting their agricultural management formed at Winjallock, near Stawell, in 1986 was the forerunner for sustainable productivity and maximum recharge control17. to an extensive community effort to tackle land degradation Nutrient deficiency, shallow soil profiles and poor soil across the catchment throughout the 1990s. More than 115 structure (surface and/or sub-soils) are only some of the groups operate today. DPI/DSE and the Glenelg Hopkins CMA limitations. There are contrasting needs for improved pasture have had a key role in supporting community efforts to management and the control of water logging, soil erosion and address land degradation and improve water quality. Native other forms of degradation. The inherent fertility of the basalt vegetation controls introduced in 1989 have substantially plains and volcanic soils is quite high.

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Figure 4 ~ Soils in the Glenelg Hopkins region

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A recent State-wide investigation has identified approximately Particular soil landform units are more suited to specific 7,312 ha of potential Coastal Acid Sulphate Soils (CASS). These agricultural enterprises than others. For dairy, this includes soils occur in former estuarine sediments, which are now the basalt and scoria country to the north and west of buried at shallow depths beneath coastal plains, or in bottom Heywood, the dissected country of the Digby soil landform sediments in modern estuaries. Acid and sulphate are unit and the Koroit Marl soil landform unit. Wine grapes would produced if these soils are exposed to oxygen by drainage, be suited to land of the Marl soil landform unit and Blue Gums water table reduction or excavation for development. The to the rich red basalts north-west of Portland. Approximately concentrated acid formed can have an immediate impact on 81% of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region has been developed aquatic flora and fauna (e.g. fish and crustacea mortality and for agricultural uses. About 2% of the catchment comprises sterile water bodies). They also produce more insidious effects pine forest while 16% is native forest and less than 1% is used longer term, with substantial environmental and economic for urban and industrial development. The main agricultural consequences, such as pollution of water supplies resulting in land uses are dominated by dryland pasture (over two million significant health problems for humans and animals, corrosion ha), including horticulture. Public land is dominated by of concrete, aluminum and iron structures in road bridges and National Parks, covering over 200,000 ha. The Grampians house footings and ulcerative diseases in fish18. National Park covers most of this area (167,100 ha). State, coastal parks and reference areas total almost 35,300 ha. The A land degradation analysis carried out in 2001 indicated there Land and Resource Assessment of the Glenelg Hopkins region are substantial areas at risk from land and water performed a land capability analysis which identified land with 19 degradation . Table 2 summarises these results. high, moderate and low capacity to support the agricultural enterprises of wine grapes, dairy farming, Blue Gum Within the region, particular soil landform units are naturally plantations, broad-acre cropping and areas that would benefit prone to land and water degradation. The Merino Tablelands with raised beds21. Table 3 shows the areas capable of and older river terraces of the Wannon River are subject to supporting the various land uses but makes no assessment of mass movement. Discovery Bay and Nelson Plains and Dunes the appropriateness of the land use in terms of environmental suffer from wind erosion. Minor segments of the Mount impact. Intensive agricultural production can lead to the loss Stavely Block experience sheet and rill erosion and colluvial of soil organic matter, resulting in soil structure breakdown sediments, sandstones and siltstones are prone to gully and and increased erosion. Compaction of soils by stock, farm tunnel erosion20. machinery and intensive cultivation also threatens soil health across parts of the catchment.

Table 2 ~ Land area (ha) subject to degradation hazard in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Land and Area (ha) of Area (ha) of Area (ha) of % Area of Water Degradation high inherent moderate inherent low inherent high risk in the Hazard susceptibility risk susceptibility risk susceptibility risk Glenelg Hopkins region Mass Movement 97,400 1,800 2,117,100 4 Gully and Tunnel Erosion 298,000 346,300 1,572,300 13 Sheet and Rill Erosion 2,700 1,020,300 1,193,600 <1 Wind Erosion 51,800 629,500 1,538,900 2

Table 3 ~ Land area (ha) capable of supporting identified land uses

Land Use Area (ha) of high Area (ha) of moderate Area (ha) of low % Area of high capability rating capability rating capability rating capability in the Glenelg Hopkins region Wine grapes 60,800 1,825,000 330,400 3 Dairy 21,900 1,750,200 444,500 1 Blue Gums 15,300 192,600 1,062,100 <1 Broad-acre cropping - 1,138,900 2,022,900 - Broadacre cropping with benefits of raised beds 175,000 8

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3.4 GROUNDWATER AND SALINITY

Groundwater is a precious resource increasingly being seen as an economic alternative to surface supplies. Due to the saline nature of most rivers and lakes in the region, groundwater is heavily utilised for irrigation, stock, dairy-washing, industry and town supplies. Groundwater is a vast resource that has many advantages over surface water; it has relatively constant chemistry and temperature, and the quality is usually good and biologically pure. However, groundwater is at risk of contamination from pesticides, animal wastes, inorganic fertilisers and soil additives. Once polluted, groundwater is very difficult to treat. The Otway, Murray and Highland groundwater basins lie beneath the Glenelg Hopkins region, with the Otway being the major sedimentary basin holding groundwater in the South West. Clearing of deep-rooted native vegetation and groundwater extractions have resulted in a changed groundwater flow pattern across the catchment in the years since European settlement22.

The main groundwater monitoring networks operating in the region are the State-wide Monitoring Bore Network and the Centre for Land Protection Research (CLPR) Groundwater Monitoring Network23. The monitoring task is performed by DPI/DSE, contractors and community volunteers. Data from the State-wide Groundwater Database (GDB) shows a total of 617 groundwater bores in the region24. The GDB is owned by DPI/DSE, managed by Sinclair Knight Mertz on behalf of DPI/DSE and generated from the Monitoring Bore Network25. Of the 617 groundwater bores, 605 have bore identification numbers26. Of these, only 125 have monitoring data, predominantly depth-to-water records27.

With the exception of EC measurements in field sampling, groundwater quality testing is not widely practiced across the catchment. Currently, only four bores are EC-monitored quarterly and were tested for EC (laboratory), pH, Total Dissolved Solids and Total Suspended Solids in March, 200228. A limited amount of appropriate data is available within the GDB. This makes the task of determining current groundwater conditions difficult, as does the extent of different landforms29. Analysis of sub-catchment groundwater conditions has not been attempted due to the fact many of the monitored bores have only undergone testing since 1997 or later. Of the bores that have trend analysis, only groundwater levels and EC data are available30.

Groundwater flow systems play a major role in salinity processes. Their individual characteristics determine the “Groundwater is a vast resource that has expression of salinity in the landscape. The National Land and Water Resources Audit (NLWRA) has established a framework many advantages over surface water...” for dryland salinity management in Australia based on groundwater flow systems. Twelve groundwater flow systems have been broadly identified nationally on the basis of distinctive geological and geomorphological character. Three occur in South West Victoria - local flow systems in deeply weathered rocks, local flow systems in fine-grained unconsolidated sediments and regional and intermediate flow systems within fractured basaltic rocks31.

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Table 4 ~ Land estimated to be in each class of water table depth for CMA regions and percentage of CMA region with shallow water tables

Area of land (kha) in each water table class CMA region Coastal <2 m 2-5 m 5-10 m >10 m %<2 m Corangamite 9.9 51.2 333.3 545.0 91.5 5.0 East Gippsland 25.1 1.8 78.6 87.6 166.7 0.5 Glenelg Hopkins 6.4 144.5 697.8 1,051.5 280.7 6.6 Goulburn-Broken 123.6 320.8 416.4 334.7 10.3 Mallee 60.7 167.7 351.0 2,062.9 2.3 North Central 124.3 437.6 879.4 566.0 6.2 North East 40.4 301.6 91.0 216.5 6.2 Port Phillip 20.1 8.5 205.6 399.9 157.8 1.1 West Gippsland 53.2 14.1 192.4 335.7 187.2 1.8 Wimmera 96.4 106.3 215.9 1,557.2 4.9 Total 114.8 665.4 2,841.5 4,373.3 5,621.3 4.9

Figure 5 ~ Groundwater Flow Systems and Saline Discharge Sites within the Glenelg Hopkins region

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3.0 CATCHMENT DESCRIPTION

Land in Victoria estimated to be at risk from shallow saline The impacts of dryland salinity are expected to be greatest in water tables is approximately 670,000 ha. This could increase the upper parts of the catchment. The main reasons dryland to more than three million ha within 50 years. Between 8% and salinity is more prevalent in this area of the region are: the 18% of the State’s agricultural land is predicted to fall into the clearing of land and replacement with vegetation that uses less high salinity risk category, with up to a further 47% in the water has been more widespread; lower relief and generally moderate-risk category under the worst-case scenario32. poorer drainage; and generally a high natural salt storage34. (Refer figure 5) The NLWRA reports the best and worse case scenarios for the current and future extent of shallow water tables and salinity An expansion in the area affected by salinity is likely to have in the region. The report shows that in a worst-case scenario significant environmental, social and economic implications. there could be a very large expansion in the area of land In a worst-case scenario, the number of fauna species having a water table less than two metres in depth, including considered threatened is expected to increase from 32 to 64. the Dundas Tablelands and basalt and alluvial plains of South The number of flora species considered threatened is likely to West Victoria. The area of land currently predicted to have a increase from 13 to 56. It is expected there will be a four-fold water table of less than two metres is 6.6%. The report shows increase in the length of streams affected by salinity and a 19% that by 2020 the predicted upper limits for land to have increase in affected wetlands. A six-fold increase in the length shallow water tables would be 19.7%, increasing to 43.4% by of roads also is expected. Salinity will threaten the economic 205033. Table 4 provides a comparison with other CMA regions viability of many farms and communities. in terms of areas of land estimated to fall within each class of water table depth.

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3.5 REGIONAL RIVERS

The Hopkins, Glenelg and Portland Coast Basins, all of which drain to the sea, control regional drainage. A description of each of these river basins is provided in the following sections.

The Index of Stream Condition (ISC) is an indicator of environmental condition that integrates information of the major components of river systems. This enables the detection of long-term changes in stream condition in catchments35. The ISC brings together information on the current river flow regime, water quality, condition of the channel and riparian zone and the presence of invertebrate communities36. The ISC is used to benchmark the condition of streams throughout the catchment, assess the long-term effectiveness of management interventions in restoring and maintaining stream condition, aid objective setting by providing feedback to waterway managers and review performance against expected outcomes37. Maps showing the streams and survey sites for the 1999 application of the ISC for each of the three river basins within the catchment are provided in Figures 6 through 8.

3.5.1 HOPKINS RIVER BASIN

The Hopkins River Basin in the eastern section of the catchment covers 10,096 square kilometres and is divided into 13 sub-catchments for management purposes. Apart from small areas of remnant forest and grassland, the basin has been entirely cleared and now supports significant agricultural activity. The Hopkins River, the major stream within the basin, begins near Ararat and enters the Southern Ocean at Warrnambool. The river is in poor condition along much of its 259 kilometre length, with little native riparian vegetation remaining. Water quality in the river continues to deteriorate due to factors such as rising salinity levels, increased sedimentation Hopkins Falls and nutrient enrichment. Blue green algal bloom outbreaks have occurred with increasing frequency in some sections while pest plant and animal infestations and unrestricted stock access contribute to poor water quality. Tributaries of the Hopkins River, such as Mt Emu Creek and Fiery Creek, also are in poor condition. The Merri River is a minor independent waterway within the Hopkins Basin. Approximately 50 kilometres in length, it rises near Penshurst and also enters the ocean in Warrnambool. Apart from a few deep gorge areas near Winslow, most reaches of the Merri River have been cleared of riparian vegetation. Subsequent introduction of unsuitable exotics in the form of willows and poplars have added to the decline in river health. Nutrient enrichment also is a major factor, with superphosphates, urban stormwater and industrial waste impacting heavily on the lower reaches. Heavy salt loads are deposited in the river from agricultural land upstream. As with other rivers in the catchment, de- snagging and channeling works were carried out by the River Improvement Trust during the 1970s. This resulted in the loss of a substantial portion of trees, as they were either undercut by the swifter flowing waters or removed to avoid falling in38.

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Figure 6 ~ ISC of Hopkins River Basin

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3.5.2 GLENELG RIVER BASIN

The Glenelg River Basin covers 11,998 square kilometres and is divided into 13 sub- catchments for management purposes. Two thirds have been cleared, with approximately 28% of the basin having significant areas of low forest and heathland remaining. The Glenelg River, the major waterway in the basin and the largest river in South West Victoria, begins in the north-east section and travels west before being intercepted by the Moora Moora and Rocklands Reservoirs. The Glenelg River between Dartmoor and the sea is classified as a Heritage River under the Heritage Rivers Act. The Wannon River is a major tributary of the Glenelg River while the Chetwynd, Stokes and Crawford Rivers are other significant tributaries. The Wannon River also begins in the north-east corner of the basin and passes through the Coleraine district before meeting the Glenelg River above Sandford. The Grange Burn River passes through the Hamilton district and, like the Dundas River near Cavendish, is a major tributary of the Wannon River. The Glenelg River catchment is recognised as one of the most severely eroded catchments in Victoria. Extensive sheet, tunnel, gully and stream bank erosion has supplied large volumes of sand from the Dundas Tablelands and it is estimated between four and eight million m3 of sand are trapped in the Glenelg River and its tributaries. Biodiversity within the river has been severely affected by sand build-up, with the original sequence of deep pools now filled. Sand slugs are moving downstream and are predicted to reach the Heritage Rivers Act listed sections of the river near Dartmoor by 2040. More than 60% of the flow of the Glenelg River is diverted to the Wimmera and this, combined with increasing salinity, causes serious water quality and ecological problems. The Glenelg River is considered to have a good extent of riparian vegetation, with 90% bordered by vegetation on both banks, while the Wannon River has 70% coverage39.

Glenelg River.

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Figure 7 ~ ISC of Glenelg River Basin

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3.5.3 PORTLAND COAST DRAINAGE BASIN

There are four main catchments within the Portland Coast reaches due to an increase in slope and the existence of State Basin - the Moyne, Eumeralla/Shaw River system, Darlots forests at the headwaters. The rivers generally are degraded in Creek/Fitzroy River system and Surry - which drain the respect to salinity and nutrient enrichment. Water quality in immediate inland areas and meet the ocean at a variety of the middle and lower reaches of the Surry is affected by points. Streams within the basin are physically stable. salinity, particularly in the drier summer months due to However, the majority are in poor environmental condition elevated groundwater salinity and minor dryland salting. The and have poor water quality. Erosion is minor and is associated middle reaches of the Surry are predominantly a farming area, with stock access. The Moyne and Eumeralla Rivers and Darlots with scattered riparian vegetation in generally poor Creek have negligible riparian vegetation while in the Fitzroy condition40. (Refer figure 8) and Surry Rivers the riparian vegetation improves in the upper

Figure 8 ~ ISC of Portland Coast Basin

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3.5.4 MARINE, COASTAL AND ESTUARINE ENVIRONMENTS

The entire Victorian coastline, including the section bordering The Otway region stretches from Cape Jaffa in South Australia the Glenelg Hopkins region, is part of the only south-facing to slightly north of Apollo Bay and includes King Island, just coastline in the Southern Hemisphere41. Of the species that north of the Tasmanian mainland46. The marine flora and fauna inhabit the southern waters, 90-95% are endemic, occurring in this area are typically cold temperate and the species only in south-eastern and southern Australia. The fact the richness of both fish and plants is high compared to other southern coastline has been isolated for around 65 million South Australian, Victorian and Tasmanian regions. A feature years has contributed to the range of endemic flora and fauna of the western part of this region is that it is among the highest species, which includes the world’s highest diversity of red and deep-water wave energy environments in the State and brown seaweeds, sea mosses, crabs, shrimps and sea squirts42. nutrient-rich coastal upwellings occur in the cold temperate waters47. The coastal geology comprises headlands of Pliocene- The marine flora and fauna are biologically diverse and are Pleistocene volcanic outcrops, with Pleistocene dune rock typically cold water temperate species. Changing sea levels, cliffs, shore platforms and offshore reefs providing coastal volcanic activity and wind and water erosion have formed the protection48. dramatic features of the coastline, which comprise towering cliffs and extensive dune systems. Coastal complexes are home Estuaries are the interface between rivers and the sea. They are to a variety of threatened species and the appearance of their mixing zones where fresh water meets salt water, discharges unique landscape is a major tourist attraction. The coastline from upstream catchment areas meet the cyclic ebb and flow includes the remote dune systems of Discovery Bay, near of tidal discharges and aquatic flora and fauna fresh water Portland. The importance of protecting marine biodiversity regimes meet their marine counterparts49. Estuaries within the was confirmed by the Environment Conservation Council catchment are unique ecosystems that have suffered from recommending the establishment of a Marine National Park at poor land management practices upstream. Most estuaries Discovery Bay, a Marine Sanctuary at the mouth of the Merri along the South West coast of Victoria are closed by sand River and special management areas at Cape Bridgewater, during periods of low flow and generally open naturally when Lawrence Rocks, Portland Bay, Lady Julia Percy Island (Deen conditions are favorable. The periodic changes to river mouths Mar) and Logans Beach. These have been subsequently make the estuaries dynamic systems, with opening and closing enshrined in legislation43. being accompanied by dramatic changes in salinity and oxygen levels. In the past, inappropriate artificial openings have had The Interim Marine and Coastal Regionalisation for Australia significant detrimental effects on the instream life. (IMCRA) has been developed as a regional framework for planning resource development and biodiversity44. It also was Estuaries west of Cape Otway are salt-wedge type - i.e. endorsed as a key element of the Strategic Plan for the intermittently open systems with sandbars at their mouths, Establishment of a National Representative System of Marine which may close the estuary during periods of low flow50. This Protected Areas45. IMCRA combines a series of maps and tends to be the case as the South West coastline has a small descriptions of Australia’s marine waters that identify regions tidal range of less than 1m between high and low tides51. This with biological and physical characteristics distinct from those means river inflows are dominant over tidal influence. The anywhere else in Australia. Five Victorian regions were geomorphology and low gradient of these estuaries are incorporated into the IMCRA, including the Otway region contributing factors to their physical form. situated along the coastline for which the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is responsible.

Coastal sunset. Photo: Linda Wray-McCann

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Two of the largest estuaries in western Victoria belong to the crustacean, of which six were previously unknown59. A higher Glenelg and Hopkins Rivers. The morphological characteristics number of zooplankton species has not been found in other of these two estuaries are similar as they occupy rock-walled Australian estuary studies60. Zooplankton are an important canyons cut into Miocene limestone bedrock for the most of part of the estuarine food web, being a major component of their length52. This makes floodplains and wetlands scarce, the diet for larger fish, birds and crustaceans. Fish species except for the limited wetland areas near the mouth of the found in the Hopkins estuary include Yellow-eye Mullet, Glenelg River53. Other estuaries in the basin include the Merri Mulloway and Australian Salmon that enter the estuary from River, south of Warrnambool, and shallower lowland estuaries the marine environment61. Blackbream permanently inhabit within the Portland Coast Basin. and spawn in the estuary. The Short-finned Eel uses the Hopkins estuary as a passage on its journey between the river The Hopkins River estuary is a highly stratified salt-wedge type. and the sea throughout various stages of its life cycle. Estuary A sandbar restricts flow at the mouth, contributing to limited Perch is a fresh water species that moves downstream into the 54 tidal turbulence and mixing in the estuary waters . The denser estuary to spawn62. salt water ‘slides’ beneath the fresh water, creating stratification or three layers, being an upper ‘fresh’ layer, a The most serious threats to the health of marine and estuarine lower ‘salt’ layer and an intermediate mixing zone55. Heavy environments stem from catchment activities63. Diffuse rainfall during winter can result in flooding of the mouth with sources of sediments, nutrients and toxicants from catchments salt water flushed from the estuary. draining to the coast and reduced environmental flows pose significant risks to the quality of these environments. During summer, when river discharge is at its lowest and the sandbar builds back up after winter/spring flows, there is limited water exchange between the estuary and the ocean. 3.6 REGIONAL WETLANDS With the decline in water levels, oxygen is used up in the Wetlands were a defining feature of the pre-European deeper water faster than it can be replaced, leading to falling landscape. The region has 44% of Victoria’s wetlands, 90% of levels of dissolved oxygen and an anoxic environment56. The which are on private land. Since European settlement, 78% of upper ‘fresh’ layer remains oxygenated due to continuous the shallow fresh water meadows and 66% of deep fresh water dissolving of air and photosynthesis by algae and macrophytes meadows have been lost. On the volcanic plains, over 75% of and wind-generated turbulence57. The thickness of this layer is the shallow fresh water wetlands have been lost or severely generally two metres, but at times it may only be 0.5m58. This modified by drainage. Despite extensive drainage for thin upper layer is home to most aquatic organisms of the agriculture, the region still contains many environmentally Upper Hopkins estuary during summer-autumn. Concerns for significant wetlands. Some wetlands in the region are part of the Hopkins estuary and other estuaries within the region are international conservation agreements, including Japan that increased nutrient run-off leading to massive algal blooms Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (JAMBA) and China can result in oxygen depletion in this upper layer and the Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (CAMBA) as sites death of the organisms relying on it. important in the protection of threatened species. Lake Despite massive land-use changes in the past 150 years, the Bookar, near Camperdown, is recognised under the RAMSAR Hopkins estuary has a diverse and productive ecosystem. agreement as a wetland of international importance. The Research between 1983 and 1985 revealed more than 130 Glenelg Hopkins region has 16 wetlands listed as Nationally species of zooplankton, including 57 species of copepod Important.

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As included in the Directory of Important Wetlands, the Lake Wetlands are important breeding and feeding places for many Linlithgow wetlands, near Tarrington, are important, albeit threatened indigenous species, such as the Brolga, which now degraded, representative remnants of the former wetlands numbers less than 600 in Victoria. Many wetlands act as containing valuable flora and fauna. The Lindsay Werrikoo significant dry season and drought refuges for a myriad of wetlands system, near Dartmoor, consists of a high density waterbirds and other species. They are vitally important in mosaic of fresh water meadows, shallow fresh water marshes preserving regional biodiversity, with many rare and unique and deep fresh water marshes. Despite extensive clearing in the species found within them. Drainage of wetlands has resulted vicinity, they remain important in protecting a variety of in significant biodiversity loss and caused substantial erosion threatened species. The Mundi Selkirk wetlands, near in parts of the catchment. Rising water tables and Casterton, contain a variety of marshes and meadows in corresponding increased salinity levels are a major concern for forested land and help preserve many nationally threatened wetland health, as are ongoing nutrient enrichment, chemical species of plants and animals. Other important wetlands contamination, pollution, drainage, clearing, unrestricted described in the Health of the Catchment Report include the stock access, inappropriate river mouth openings, boating, off- Lower Merri River Wetlands, Tower Hill, Yambuk Wetlands, road vehicle use and pest plant and animal infestations65. Lake Muirhead, Mount Willam Swamp, Woorndoo-Hopkins Significant opportunities exist to improve wetland Wetlands, Dergholm Wetlands, Boiler Swamp, Lake Condah, management and restore wetlands across the region. Long Swamp, Glenelg Estuary, Glenelg River, Lake Bolac, Lake Burrumbeet, Bryans Swamp, Myuna Lane Swamp, Chinamans Swamp, Lake Buninjon and Nerrin Nerrin Wetlands64.

Figure 9 ~ Wetlands in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment 1996

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3.7 REGIONAL BIODIVERSITY

Removal of native vegetation has impacted heavily on regional biodiversity by altering many of the processes necessary for the continued survival of working ecosystems. Removal and fragmentation of native vegetation has led to major reductions in habitat and the number of birds and other animals able to survive66 while a variety of threats has decreased the quality of available habitats for aquatic species. Bioregions are frameworks for terrestrial and marine environment classification on the basis of ecological characteristics. Bioregions identified in the Glenelg Hopkins Native Vegetation Plan are the Central Victorian Uplands, Dundas Tablelands, Glenelg Plain, Goldfields, Greater Grampians, Victorian Volcanic Plain, Warrnambool Plain and Wimmera67. A description of the major bioregions follows. A description of the Otway IMCRA, the marine bioregion covering the coast, has been given in section 3.5.4.

3.7.1 GLENELG PLAIN BIOREGION

The Glenelg Plain Bioregion covers 2.2% of Victoria68. Floristically, the bioregion is varied. Coastal communities are composed of beach and dune vegetation, including a largely unvegetated extensive dune system with lakes that support wetland vegetation. Geomorphologically-significant basaltic sea caves occur along adjoining coastline, with extensive coastal cliffs, salt marshes and wet heathlands69. Woodlands occur through much of the region. Lowland Forests of predominantly brown Stringy Bark provide the basis for hardwood logging in the south-east portion of the bioregion70. Approximately half The Glenelg Plain has been cleared and sown to exotic pasture or plantation species, with the other half remaining as native vegetation71. To the south-east, Lowland Forest dominates. Several areas of Plains Grassy Woodland, once dominated by Red Gum and easily converted to pasture, have generally been cleared and modified, with only 20.9% of the pre-European cover remaining72. Of the Coastal Grassy Woodland complex, only 9.4% remains73.

Table 5 ~ Extent of Vegetation for each Victorian Bioregion

*Extent of Vegetation for each Victorian Bioregion Bioregions in the Current Pre-1750 Glenelg Hopkins region Reserved Other Public Private Total % of % CMA ha Area (ha) land (ha) ha Area (ha) Bioregion Central Victorian Uplands (CVU) 4,367 10,618 9,090 24,075 21.3% 0.9% 112,910 Dundas Tablelands (DT) 5,165 25,954 18,832 49,950 10.9% 1.9% 459,289 Glenelg Plain (GP) 57,181 101,768 76,770 235,719 48.7% 8.8% 483,765 Goldfields (GO) 375 2,445 755 3,575 3.8% 0.1% 94,114 Greater Grampians (GG) 111,059 7,189 11,258 129,506 67.8% 4.8% 191,139 Victorian Volcanic Plain (VP) 16,670 41,441 18,744 76,855 6.4% 2.9% 1,202,258 Warrnambool Plain (WP) 226 2,964 3,954 7,143 6.9% 0.3% 104,179 Wimmera (WI) 418 3,148 3,169 6,735 23.9% 0.3% 28,172 Unclassified 137 94 26 257 13.1% 0.0% 1,967 TOTAL 195,597 195,622 142,596 533,816 - 19.9% 2,677,795 Source: Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2001) Native Vegetation Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton

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The bioregion supports a wide variety of reptiles, birds of prey, Extensive marine biodiversity exists at Discovery Bay, north- waterbirds, woodland and ground-dwelling birds, and an array west of Cape Bridgewater, including thick growths of sessile of mammal species. Threatened species include the Brolga, Red- invertebrates containing species of sponges, ascidian, bryozoa tailed Black Cockatoo, Plains Wanderer, Hooded Plover, Little and gorgonian. These occur on calcarenite reefs between 33 Tern, Rufous Bristlebird, Orange-bellied Parrot, Grey-crowned and 55m in depth78. A variety of kelps, including the large Babbler and the Heath Mouse74. The Red-tailed Black Cockatoo, brown kelp Ecklonia radiata, cover the basaltic reefs that can Southern Pipewort, Small Potato Orchid, Dwarf Brooklime, measure 18m in depth79. There is a high diversity of inter-tidal Malleefowl and Metalic Sun-Orchid are nationally threatened and shallow sub-tidal invertebrates, including rock lobster and species found in the bioregion75. Other threatened flora and abalone, which are highly valued by the commercial fishing fauna include the Powerful Owl, Brush-tailed Phascogale, industry. Blue Whale populations are monitored in the region, Wrinkled Cassinia, Coast Dandelion, Curly Sedge and numerous with their occurrence attributed to nutrient-rich upwelling orchids, including at least four spider orchids and the Leafy areas. White Pointers also are regularly sighted in the Greenhood76. One species of fish, the Variegated (Ewen’s) Discovery Bay region80. Pygmy Perch, is restricted to South West Victoria and adjacent areas of south-eastern Australia77. Other important aquatic One of only two mainland Australian Fur Seal colonies exists at biodiversity includes The Glenelg Spiny Crayfish, The Glenelg Cape Bridgewater, west of Portland. A small number of New 81 Freshwater Mussel, Australian Grayling and the Yarra Pygmy Zealand Fur Seals also are reported to come ashore there . If Perch. sightings of breeding seals are verified, this would make the Cape Bridgewater Australian Fur Seal colony the only mainland breeding colony in Australia82.

Figure 10 ~ Bioregions in the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment

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Lawrence Rocks, in the waters south-east of Portland, 3.7.2 VICTORIAN VOLCANIC PLAIN BIOREGION comprise islands of volcanic rock of State geological and geomorphological significance. They are the highest offshore The Victorian Volcanic Plain Bioregion covers 9.1% of Victoria point of a largely submerged volcanic caldera beneath Nelson and comprises flat to undulating plains. It is characterised by Bay83. A kelp forest up to 12m high can be found in the waters vast open areas of grasslands, small patches of open woodland, on the northern side of Lawrence Rocks84. Abundant marine stony rises, low peaks of extinct volcanoes and numerous life is found in the natural harbour on the western side of the scattered large shallow lakes89. The major land use is rocks, which has been noted for its calm conditions. The rocks agriculture, especially sheep and cattle grazing and cropping. have a high value as breeding colonies for several species of Almost all native ecosystems have been severely depleted, with seabirds. Species utilising the area include the Little Penguin, remnants occurring in small and isolated patches90. This Fairy Prion, Common Diving Petrel and the largest colony of extensive depletion and fragmentation of ecosystems means Gannets in Australia85. the remaining areas are highly significant for biodiversity conservation91. Once the major habitat covering many Portland Bay contains the most extensive known beds of thousands of square kilometres on the Victorian Volcanic Plain, seagrass (Amphibolis antarctica) on the open coast of native grasslands are now reduced to a few thousand hectares, Victoria86. This highly productive seagrass ecosystem supports with much of this in small fragmented road and rail reserves a diverse invertebrate community and is a nursery for juvenile and cemeteries92. The grassland communities are floristically fish, such as King George Whiting, and occasionally Snapper rich, usually dominated by Kangaroo Grass, with a wide and Shark87. These seagrass beds provide growth for the rare variety of perennial herbs. While there are a few larger patches brown alga Cystophora cymodocea, which grow attached to on private land, only 0.2% of the grassland land complexes the seagrass88. Low and high profile rocky reefs within that once existed remain. Almost all the woodlands have been Portland Bay also provide habitats for a range of reef species. cleared, with little regeneration of remaining areas on private land because of grazing and cropping93.

The bioregion has a high proportion of extinct or threatened flora and fauna relative to the rest of Victoria. Threatened species include the Eastern Barred Bandicoot, Plains Wanderer, Brolga, Striped Legless Lizard, Southern Lined Earless Dragon, Corangamite Water Skink, Salt-lake Tussock Grass, Small Scurf Pea, Spring Rice Flower, Matted Flax Lily, Dwarf Spider Orchid and Basalt Rustyhood94. Small and restricted plant populations are extremely vulnerable to disturbance95. With much of the Victorian Volcanic Plain in private ownership and relatively few conservation reserves, biodiversity conservation will require the co-operation of private landowners and managers.

3.7.3 DUNDAS TABLELANDS BIOREGION

Golden Cisticola Photo: Rob Drummond The Dundas Tablelands is an undulating area to the west of The Grampians that has been substantially cleared for agriculture, principally sheep and cattle grazing. At the time of European settlement, the Dundas Tablelands were dominated by Plains Grassy Woodland Complexes (only 10% of the original 377,687 ha remains), Grassland Complexes (of the 79,694 ha of pre-European coverage only 0.1% remains) and Inland Slopes Woodland Complexes96. Some 90% of the bioregion has been cleared for agriculture97. Remnants of Plains Grassy Woodland Complexes constitute 30% of the remaining area of this vegetation type in Victoria.

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The biodiversity values associated with the more fertile valleys, tablelands and plains of the Victorian Midlands have generally fared worse than those associated with the less fertile slopes and hills98. In areas where native vegetation has been cleared (such as the Dundas Tablelands), most of the native biodiversity has been lost. Remnant vegetation in these landscapes is often degraded, much of it having been affected by grazing, weed infestation, timber harvesting and altered fire regimes99. Degradation and fragmentation of habitat in these landscapes has led to the extinction of native species where they depended on particular habitat features that have been lost. In the Dundas Tablelands, many remnants on private land are continually grazed by domestic stock, preventing adequate regeneration of woody species. Dryland salinity poses a threat to lower lying areas of this bioregion. Environmental weeds are a major threat in some areas, particularly on fertile soils near farmland, while rabbits remain a threat to palatable native plants, such as orchids100.

3.7.4 GREATER GRAMPIANS BIOREGION

The Greater Grampians bioregion covers 1.2% of Victoria and is dominated by The Grampians National Park. The bioregion has eight broad vegetation types. Threatened fauna species include the Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby, Smokey Mouse, Lewins Rail, Bush Stone Curlew, Powerful Owl and Brolga101. Rare or threatened plant species include the Mount William Grevillea, Southern Pipewort, Grampians Pincushion Lilly and numerous Largest Red Gum in Glenelg Hopkins Region - ‘Bilson Tree’ near Casterton orchids, including the Crimson Spider Orchid and the Grampians Duck Orchid102. The Grampians is well recognised as an exceptionally rich area for plants, supporting a large At the time of European settlement, the Coastal Plains were number of endemic species, with a diverse range of fauna. In dominated by forests, heathy and grassy woodlands and other parts of the Victorian Midlands, substantial areas of coastal shrubs and grasslands. There has been substantial native vegetation remain. In some cases, this vegetation is in clearing of all vegetation types, particularly those on deeper, remarkably good condition - weed-free, structurally diverse, more fertile soils, with Lowland Forests (7.3% of 153,150ha species rich and with ecological processes largely intact103. remains) and Coastal Grassy Woodlands (10.3% of pre- European area remaining) the most abundant broad vegetation 3.7.5 WARRNAMBOOL PLAIN BIOREGION types106. Seven broad vegetation types are represented. Coastal Heathlands and Heathy Woodlands are known for their The Warrnambool Plain bioregion covers 1.0% of Victoria. The diverse ground floras, particularly of terrestrial orchids, and majority is private land and, while sheep and cattle grazing are are communities in which the importance of maintaining widespread, the primary agricultural focus is the dairy natural ecological processes through appropriate fire regimes industry. The coastal waters of the region support diverse is recognised107. The vulnerable Metallic Sun Orchid occurs at fishing activities. The bioregion has been largely cleared of the Bay of Islands Coastal Park. Rare or threatened fauna native vegetation and modified with the introduction of species in the Warrnambool Plain include the Orange-bellied pasture species. Approximately 90% has been cleared, Parrot, Magpie Goose, Great Egret, Common Bent-winged Bat, although some significant remnants of Manna Gum and Swamp Antechinus and Swamp Skink108. The coastal areas also Messmate Stringy Bark bushland remain on private land104. The are important for a number of these threatened species of most significant of these, the Ralph Illidge Sanctuary at shorebirds, including the Hooded Plover and Orange-bellied Naringal, is owned by Trust for Nature and is managed as a Parrot and several species of terns. conservation reserve105.

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Other interesting sites for fauna include a Common Bent-wing 3.8 REGIONAL PARKS AND Bat maternity cave at Lake Gillear, one of only three in South East Australia, and a Southern Right Whale calving nursery at RESERVES Logans Beach in Warrnambool109. Rare and threatened flora Significant regional land-based ecosystems have been partly from this bioregion include the Rare Bitter Bush, Swamp Diuris, protected through the parks system for many years. The Health Clover Glycine, Lime Fern and Swamp Greenhood110. of the Catchment Report details the extent and condition of

The remaining native ecosystems, particularly those severely parks in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment. Major parks are the depleted (such as open coastal shrubs and shallow fresh water Bay of Islands Coastal Park, Cape Nelson State Park, Dergholm wetlands), are highly significant and vital for biodiversity State Park, Discovery Bay Coastal Park, Grampians National conservation. Vegetation remnants are at risk from weed Park, Lower Glenelg National Park, Mount Eccles National invasion while native fauna is increasingly affected by Park, Mount Napier State Park, Mount Richmond National introduced predators (fox and feral cat) and fragmentation Park, Crawford River Regional Park, Ararat Hills Regional Park, and modification of habitats. Black Range State Park, Mt Buangor State Park, Langi Ghiran State Park and the Tower Hill State Game Reserve. Numerous The Merri River mouth, south of Warrnambool, supports a other Nature Conservation Reserves, Reference Areas, Wildlife variety of fish life in rocky overhangs and 8 to 10m deep Reserves, Streamside Reserves, Bushland Reserves, Coastal canyons, including Parrotfish, Blue-throated Wrasse, Bastard Reserves, Education Areas, Flora Reserves, Lake Reserves and Trumpeters, Magpie Perch and Dusky and Banded Morwong111. Scenic Reserves are found across the region. Significant areas Various types of seaweed are present on a seabed of reef and of State Forest are also found within the region and have also sand. This provides a range of habitats and uniquely diverse been important in protecting many natural values and marine life that includes abalone, crabs and Southern Rock supporting timber based industries. Parks, forests and reserves Lobster, which rely on the narrow vertical crevices in the reefs face a variety of threats. Rising groundwater tables and for shelter112. Penguin colonies exist on Middle and Merri associated salinity levels threaten some parks while pest plant Islands and dolphins have been noted in the sheltered side of and animal infestations threaten the ecological value of many the Merri River mouth. others.

Lady Julia Percy Island is located between Port Fairy and A Marine National Park has been established at Discovery Bay, Portland. It is of national geological and geomorphological a Marine Sanctuary at the mouth of the Merri River and special significance and of cultural and spiritual importance to the management areas at Cape Bridgewater, Lawrence Rocks, local Gundjitmara Aborigines, who associated the island with Portland Bay, Lady Julia Percy Island and Logan’s Beach. As the spirits of the dead113. The sub-tidal area around the island already noted, the most serious threats to the health of marine is considered one of the most spectacular underwater and estuarine environments stem from catchment activities environments in Victoria. A dense kelp canopy covers the that produce excess sediments, nutrients and toxicants. sharply sloping reefs of the southern and eastern sides of the island, providing a diverse habitat for a variety of marine life, while the northern end drops into a sandy seabed114. The island is home to the second largest Australian Fur Seal colony in Victoria and is a breeding ground for numerous birds115. Harvesting of abalone and rock lobster form part of the commercial fishery in the area.

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3.9 PEST PLANT AND ANIMAL INFESTATIONS

Pest plant and animal infestations are among the most serious threat to primary production and native biodiversity in the region. A weed in Victoria can be an exotic plant introduced from overseas, a species from outside the State or a Victorian species that has spread outside its original distribution116. It is estimated up to 65% of Victoria’s weeds are exotic plants intentionally introduced into Australia for sale as ornamental plants for floral arrangement, garden plants and landscaping. Environmental weeds invade native vegetation, usually adversely affecting regeneration and survival of indigenous flora and fauna117. The Glenelg Hopkins catchment is at high risk from new weed species because of its proximity to a state border and major transport corridors, such as the Princess, Midland and Hamilton Highways.

Top priority weeds in the region include Blackberries, Cape Tulip, Serrated Tussock, Gorse, Ragwort, African Feather Grass and Patterson’s Curse. The Glenelg River Basin contains weeds such as “Environmental weeds invade native Cape Tulip and African Feathergrass introduced by past river vegetation, usually adversely 118 management work . More recently, Ragwort has been noted affecting regeneration and survival along waterways. The Hopkins Basin has a widespread of weeds, such as Gorse, Bathurst Burr, Serrated Tussock and of indigenous flora and fauna.” Blackberries119. In the Lower Hopkins, Merri, Drysdale and Spring Creeks willows grow uncontrollably and dominate the riparian vegetation community. Other problem weeds in the riparian zones of the Merri River catchment include Gorse, English Broom, Blackberry, Boxthorn, Hawthorn, Ragwort and pasture weeds, such as Mallow. Bridal Creeper is a problem species in areas of the lower Merri River and Canadian Pondweed is abundant downstream of Wollaston Bridge120. In the Mt Emu Creek catchment, Gorse, Blackberry, Spiny Rush and Thistles are prominent in the north, particularly around Ballarat. In the middle of the catchment, the main weeds are Bent Grass, Spiny Rush, Thistles and some Horehound. In the lower catchment, Horehound and Blackberry are of concern121. Declared noxious weeds in Victoria are plants that have been proclaimed under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994. These plants cause environmental or economic harm, or have the potential to cause such harm. There are 14 State Prohibited Weed species in the catchment. As priority species are discovered they are eradicated and therefore their distribution may be small or highly localised. Recently, infestations of Alligator Weed and Black Knapweed have been located and treated122. Serrated Tussock and Ragwort are other species considered to be State priorities and have strategies in place.

Rabbits and foxes are the main pest animal threats to public and private land in the region123. Feral goats, cats and pigs and hares, mice, sparrows and starlings also occur, albeit to a lesser extent124. Wild dogs are not considered an issue, but domestic dogs that roam in packs can cause localised problems for farmers and native animals125. Feral cats are common in the region and impact heavily on native biodiversity. Native wildlife such as Kangaroos, Swamp Wallabies and Corellas, while not deemed pest animals, are often considered a nuisance because of their impacts on agricultural production and environmental assets. Possums have a severe impact on remnant Red Gums along some watercourses126. In the Hopkins Basin, foxes, cats and possums are common. Kangaroo and Swamp Wallaby impact on agricultural production in the north of the Mt Emu Creek catchment. Corellas also are a problem in some areas as they impact on crop yields and stock feed127.

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European Carp have been found in Lake Burrumbeet, Greenhill important vegetation communities that prevent sedimentation Lake, Deep Lake, Lake Bolac, the Toolondo Reservoir, Rocklands of streams that contain the Variegated Pygmy Perch132. Rabbits Reservoir and beyond. They have the potential to affect are considered a direct grazing threat to a number of other waterways across the entire catchment128. Carp are one of the orchids and Victorian Volcanic Plain grassland species. Rabbits world’s most widely distributed fresh water fish and, since their actively compete for habitat with threatened species, such as introduction in Australia in the 1960s, have spread throughout the Eastern Barred Bandicoot, and are considered a major the country. Their success is attributed to an ability to adapt to contributor to the decline in quality of vegetation surrounding different feed sources and tolerate extreme environmental some wetlands. conditions, such as high and low water temperatures and low oxygen concentrations. Controlling European Carp is vital as Foxes also are an established pest animal under the Catchment 133 they can cause serious environmental and economic impacts by and Land Protection Act 1994 . Native fauna did not co-evolve reducing water quality and degrading aquatic habitats. with the fox and, therefore, is susceptible with few adaptive Environmental impacts include increasing water turbidity, strategies to avoid predation. Foxes pose an enormous threat to stream bank erosion, nutrient concentration and the survival of a range of fauna in the region. Foxes are listed as phytoplankton concentrations while decreasing the diversity a threatening process under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act. and abundance of macrophytes and macroinvertebrates, and Portland harbour was surveyed for introduced species in 1996. competing with native fish for food and habitat. The following exotic species were found: the toxic Rabbits are recognised as the most serious vertebrate pest in dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense, the bottom-dwelling Victoria, responsible for major environmental and agricultural sabellid tube worms Euchone sp.1 and Myxicola infundibulum, damage. Rabbits are declared an established pest animal under the bottom-dwelling molluscs Corbula gibba, Musceulista the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994129. They are a senhousia and Theora lubrica, the bryozoans Bugula dentata, major factor in the reduction and loss of many native plant Bugula neritina and Watersipora subtorquata. Euchone sp.1 and animal species by causing detrimental habitat change and was the only confirmed exotic that was sufficiently abundant direct grazing competition. Rabbits also cause intensified to cause a significant ecological impact. The presence of predation of native animals by cats and foxes when rabbit Alexandrium tamarense has been noted as a particular numbers crash following fluctuating seasonal impacts130. The concern as blooms of this species may result in paralytic economic impacts of rabbits in the region are estimated at shellfish poisoning, a potentially fatal human illness that can 134 $38.82 million in lost agricultural production annually131. effect shellfish consumers . The impacts of the rapidly Rabbits have been identified as a major contributor to soil spreading Northern Pacific Sea Star on the ecology of Port erosion in many areas. They also have been identified as Phillip Bay highlights the need for vigilance. preventing regeneration of Limestone Spider Orchids and

Figure 11~ Gross value of agriculture production 1990-91 to 1999-00

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3.10 SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILE

The Glenelg Hopkins catchment has a diverse and growing Another significant diversification is that farms have been economic base. Traditionally it has relied on grazing, but acquired or leased out to companies growing Blue Gums for diversification in the agricultural and non-agricultural timber production. This has been quite spectacular over recent economy has been rapid in recent years. The major employers years, with the area under Blue Gums increasing from are agriculture, retail, manufacturing, health and community practically nothing to around 60,000ha in 2002140. The ability services, education and construction. Total agricultural of the agricultural sector to adjust its output and enterprise turnover in 1999-2000 was around $650 million while mix is one of the strengths of the region. The advent of manufacturing turned over $1,437 million in 1997, with the improved cropping practices, including raised beds, has added globally integrated aluminum smelter in Portland accounting significantly to this flexibility. It means that farmers have a for the bulk of this135. Tourism is a major economic driver in wider range of land-use options at their disposal and they can the region. In the September quarter of 2001, there were 29 respond more positively to price signals. On a smaller scale, tourist establishments, 786 rooms and 2,245 beds in the higher value horticultural industries, such as grapes, herbs and accommodation sector136. The value of all building approvals cut flowers, also have shown significant growth in the past in 2001 was around $90 million137. five years.

The deep-water port in Portland is strategically located Major grazing industries in the catchment have been monitored between the capital city ports of Adelaide and Melbourne, for over 30 years by DPI/DSE’s Farm Monitor project. This providing a vital and growing trade link for south-eastern project has collected data from around 50 farms for most of Australia. The port is a major import and export facility and that period141. The average return on equity for those farms services the agricultural industry, the forests products over the past 31 years is shown in Figure 12 and indicates that industry, the Portland Aluminum Smelter and fertiliser 2000-01 is the first time for 11 years that the return on equity production. Established export trades include grain, aluminum has been above the 31-year average142. Indications are that ingots, logs, woodchips, wood products and livestock while 2001-02 will be better than 2000-01 due to better prices for most the major import commodities include alumina, fertiliser commodities. (Refer figure 12) product and liquid pitch. Portland and other smaller ports across the region support a substantial fishing fleet. Boats The main enterprises contributing to the profitability of farms anchored in ports from Nelson to Warrnambool captured more in the project are wool, sheep, prime lambs and beef cattle. The than $30 million of catch in 2001, with abalone and rock changes in fortunes of those enterprises are illustrated in lobster providing the majority of this wealth138. Recreational Figure 13, which shows the enterprise gross margins per dry fishing contributes substantially to the local economy while sheep equivalent for each of those enterprises. The graph eel are the major commercially fished inland species. shows that for most of the 31 years, wool and prime lamb enterprises have been more profitable than beef enterprises, 3.10.1 AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION although in 2000-01 beef was the most profitable. It also shows that wool and prime lamb enterprises follow a similar trend, as The gross value of agricultural production has increased there is some overlap in their main products. It should be steadily, from $436m in 1990-91 to $650m in 1999-2000139. This noted that the beef enterprises in the project tend to be has been partly the result of increasing commodity prices, but relatively small scale. Larger scale specialist beef producers also because of significant restructuring within farm businesses. generally have been more profitable than is indicated here. The There has been a substantial swing away from sheep enterprises Farm Monitor project does not include all farm industries. The into cropping, dairying and timber production. Dairy Industry mainly located in the higher rainfall southern area of the catchment is a major economic driver in the region. Changing land use has impacted on the proportions of gross It has experienced 7% per annum growth in recent years, it income being generated by these sectors. For example, the employs directly, or indirectly 1 in 8 people in the region and gross value of dairying increased from $73 million at the start produces 20% of the wealth generated. (Refer figure 13) of the last decade to nearly $200 million by 2000. The gross value of crop production also tripled over the same period to $54 million in 2000. In contrast, the value of wool production fell, but will have increased again by the end of 2002.

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Figure 12 ~ Return to assets - South West Monitor Farm Project 1970-71 to 2000-01143

Figure 13 ~ Real gross margins per DSE Monitor Farm Project 1970-71 to 2000-01144

Figure 14 ~ Change in unemployment by age group 1991 to 1996150

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3.10.2 EMPLOYMENT 3.10.3 POPULATION

Total employment has been relatively steady at around 38,500 Most people in the catchment live in urban centres, such as jobs from 1991 to 1996. However, the types of jobs reflect the Warrnambool, Hamilton and Portland. Total population has changing emphasis of the economy from an agricultural base been declining and is predicted to continue to fall in the to a more diversified mix (Refer Table 6)145. foreseeable future. The population in 1986 was 96,800, falling to an estimated 95,850 in 2001 and projected to be around While agriculture is still the major employer with around 6,800 90,000 in 2016154. The demography of the catchment also is positions, it recorded the biggest drop of any sector between changing. Figure 15 shows the difference in age group 147 1991 and 1996, losing nearly 600 jobs in that period . Retail categories between 1986 and 1996155. It indicates the trade, the next biggest employer with around 5,600 jobs, was population is ageing. While this is a national phenomenon, it is the second fastest growing employer in that period, gaining exaggerated in regional areas as young people gravitate to 148 360 jobs . In percentage terms, forestry was the biggest capital cities. This is evident in the region, as people move from growth area (although still a minor contributor in 1996). rural areas and smaller towns to the larger centres of Government administration and finance services suffered the Warrnambool and Ballarat. There are implications for the biggest percentage employment decline in that period, economy in the future in that it will become increasingly reflecting consolidation and withdrawal of services. difficult to find young people for jobs. This trend also has significant implications for natural resource managers. With While employment has been steady, unemployment has most of the population in major urban centres, programs must actually declined over the period 1991 to 1996. This has be targeted to incorporate and facilitate action by these especially been the case in the younger age groups (15 to 39 groups. (Refer figure 15) years) - (Refer figure 14)149. The population is essentially Anglo-Saxon, with 90% of Employment is not only changing in terms of industry residents born in Australia and less than 1% Aboriginal or classification, but so are the types of jobs. The biggest Torres Strait Islanders. Only about 1% of the population over occupation class is managers and administrators (which the age of five speaks a language other than English157. includes most farmers)151. However, the fastest growing job classifications are ‘associate professionals’ and ‘intermediate clerical, sales and service workers’152. The growth in these categories has occurred at the expense of managers and administrators153.

Table 6 ~ Employment by industry classification - 1991 and 1996146

Industry 1991 1996 Difference % Diff Agriculture 7,399 6,810 -589 -8% Retail trade 5,251 5,609 +358 +7% Manufacturing 4,777 4,437 -340 -7% Health & community services 4,204 4,030 -174 -4% Other 3,539 3,834 +295 +8% Education 2,981 2,803 -178 -6% Construction 1,962 2,094 +132 +7% Wholesale trade 1,659 1,866 +207 +12% Property & business services 1,257 1,698 +441 +35% Accommodation, cafés & restaurants 1,412 1,620 +208 +15% Government administration 1,856 1,371 -485 -26% Personal & other services 1,027 1,265 +238 +23% Transport & storage 1,282 1,083 -199 -16% Total Employment 38,606 38,520

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Figure 15 ~ Change in demography from 1986 to 1996156

Figure 16 ~ Persons with Qualifications 1986 to 1996161

3.10.4 EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS 3.10.5 COMMUNITY NETWORKS

As the number of people under 15 has fallen since 1986, the The Glenelg Hopkins catchment has been a leader in Landcare number in schools has dropped accordingly. However, the for many years. Over 75% of farms had a representative who number of residents attending higher levels of education has was a member of a Landcare group in 1998-99 compared to an increased. TAFE College enrolments have almost doubled since average 42% for the whole of Victoria and 38% for Australia162. 1986 to just over 2,000158. Enrolments in CAEs or universities Much of this interest could be attributed to the have increased from 1,195 to 1,874 in the same period159. As a implementation of the Potter Farmland Plan project in the mid- result, residents of the region have been improving their 1980s, which demonstrated the benefits of whole-farm qualifications over time. Figure 16 shows how the level of planning on a number of demonstration properties throughout qualifications has changed since 1986160. The number of the region. There are numerous other groups across the bachelor degrees and higher degrees has more than doubled in catchment based around a variety of issues. Beyond the the decade since 1986 while basic vocational qualifications are Landcare network there is an active history of participation in the only category to have fallen. (Refer figure 16) natural resource management in urban and rural communities through organisations such as Field Naturalists, Societies for Growing Australian Plants, Coastcare, Waterwatch, Fishcare and other environmental groups.

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3.11 CATCHMENT ASSET IDENTIFICATION

Comprehensive asset identification is regarded by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA as an important input into targeted investment planning. An asset-based approach to natural resource management implies that management activities are focused on the protection of high value natural resource assets. The adoption of an asset-based approach helps target investment into areas that give the greatest return. In effect, the approach helps identify funding priorities rather than spreading investment thinly across all areas. The outcome of this approach will be that most funding will be allocated toward assets of greatest importance, that if an asset is threatened by a number of processes these will be addressed and that investment will not be made into assets that will be lost.

Acceptance of a ‘Triple Bottom Line’ approach to natural resource management requires consideration of assets that cover the environmental, economic and social spectrum. Therefore, the asset valuation must include their environmental, economic and social value. At the time of completing this strategy, projects to identify coastal, wetland, biodiversity and river assets are being compiled. Current regional knowledge of assets is fragmented among a number of organisations and is not entirely comprehensive, transportable and accessible. It has been recognised that knowledge of catchment assets within the Glenelg Hopkins region is not at the same level as some other regions, which have benefited from greater government investment. Development of a comprehensive asset identification process will help redress this situation.

Development of a comprehensive asset identification register reflecting environmental, economic and social values compatible with investment tools currently being developed and accessible to a variety of stakeholders is a large and complex task beyond the timeframe imposed on this strategy. In particular, valuation of ecosystem services is required. The asset identification process must be consistent across Victoria and, where possible, Australia to help prioritise investment decisions. An Asset Identification Framework is being developed in Victoria to provide a consistent basis for identifying threats to assets, supporting risk decision systems and focusing investment for asset protection. This framework will be used to develop a regional asset register and valuation process and guide subsequent investment strategies. Significant work is being done in the region to identify assets and is described below. To build on this work and to continue to adopt an asset-based approach over the next three years, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA will implement a comprehensive asset identification and valuation process in line with State frameworks currently being developed. There is a need to undertake a stocktake of the region’s important infrastructure and physical assets, including the value and importance of major roads, bridges, buildings and sites of cultural significance.

Determining the appropriate scale at which to collate, value and prioritise assets is an important consideration. The scale chosen must be small enough to allow capture of significant environmental, economic and community values that may otherwise be swamped at the regional scale and should reflect natural landscape features. The Glenelg Hopkins region contains three major drainage basins - the Glenelg, Hopkins and Portland Coast. Each contains a major river system and tributaries and can be divided into smaller sub-catchments centred on a smaller creek or waterway. At the lowest level of division, digital elevation modeling of the region has identified 134 base level sub-catchments. For planning purposes, these base level sub-catchments can be grouped into 32 sub- catchments. The 32 sub-catchments identified in the following map will be used as the basis for regional planning, asset identification, prioritisation and integrated works programs. Future work will focus on comprehensive asset identification and mapping in sub-catchments. (Refer figure 17)

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The identification of priorities within asset classes is best 3. ‘Naturalness’ - how close to natural or ecologically healthy accomplished at a planning level lower than the RCS. The is the reach in terms of macroinvertebrate communities, Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy identifies assets riparian vegetation - width, riparian vegetation - structural associated with regional river reaches and their associated intactness, riparian vegetation - longitudinal connectivity, environmental, economic and social values. This approach native fish diversity, native fish proportions, native fish based on the Victorian River Health Strategy should be used as migration and ecologically healthy river? model for asset identification and prioritisation within the catchment. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy Social Assets scored each river reach according to the following criteria: 1. Recreation - how valuable is the reach for recreational pursuits in terms of fishing, non-motor boats, motor Environmental Assets boats, camping, swimming and passive recreation? 1. Rarity - how rare are the features or functioning of the 2. Cultural - how significant is the reach for indigenous river reach in terms of significant flora and fauna, and European culture in terms of sites of cultural State-wide ecological vegetation classes, wetlands or significance, land claim, European heritage and listed estuaries of significance, wetland rarity and sites of landscape? significance? 2. Special value - have the reaches been recognised as Economic Assets valuable from a State-wide prospective in terms of 1. Importance of river reach in terms of water supply for being a heritage or representative river? agriculture, drinking water, public infrastructure, agricultural land, tourism and commercial fishing.

Figure 17 ~ Sub-catchments in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment

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The score for each river reach was calculated and used to Priority A1 Salinity hazard, high/moderate value assets, identify sub-catchments of high, moderate and low groundwater system responds to recharge environmental, social and economic value and, therefore, to control activities prioritise investment decisions. Further detail of this ‘Triple Options Recharge management + Discharge Bottom Line’ approach to asset identification and Management + Engineering prioritisation process can be found in the Glenelg Hopkins Priority A2 Salinity hazard, high/moderate value assets, CMA River Health Strategy. The River Health Strategy also uses groundwater system does not respond to sub-catchments as a basis to identify and prioritise threats. recharge control Options Discharge Management + Engineering The Salinity Plan also recognises the importance of targeted investment to protect assets. Priority sub-catchments for Priority B1 Salinity hazard, low value assets, groundwater salinity management were determined through four key steps: system responds to recharge control activities 1. Salinity Hazard: Land and water resources degraded by Options Recharge Management + Discharge high levels of salt threaten regional assets. Salinity is Management + Engineering widespread in the region but is not uniform; some areas are affected more than others. Salinity mapping has been Priority B2 Salinity hazard, low value assets, groundwater completed and, along with information on groundwater system does not respond to recharge control salinity levels, % of shallow watertables, stream flow Options Discharge Management + Engineering weighted salinity and land management, unit ranking has been used to determine which sub-catchments are Priority C No salinity hazard threatened. Options No salinity investment 2. Asset Identification: Protection of assets is fundamental to The detail of the asset-driven approach for the River Health the sustainability of regional communities and maintenance Strategy and the Salinity Plan illustrates the region’s of high standards of living. Agricultural land, commitment to the method. This approach also is being environmental and infrastructure assets were located adopted by other natural resource agencies in the region. within each sub-catchment. Biodiversity action plans are being constructed for each of the 3. Asset Risk Assessment: Each asset type (agricultural land, bioregions within the catchment by DPI/DSE. The draft strategy environmental and infrastructure) was assessed against the for conserving biodiversity in the Warrnambool Plain appropriate hazard criteria to produce a normalised bioregion highlights the importance of identifying biodiversity assessment of the risk of salinity to assets in the sub- assets. The strategy employs threatened taxa and ecosystems catchment. as the fundamental drivers in the belief these assets will act as 4. Technical Feasibility of Control: Groundwater flow surrogates for all biodiversity in the study area. The plan characteristics influence the likely effectiveness of acknowledges significant gaps in the information base and that available management options, the scale of work required further investigation will be required163. When completed, and the timeframe required to accrue benefits. A works such as this will help build a comprehensive knowledge groundwater characterisation was completed for the region of regional assets. The following maps highlight threatened and the flow systems grouped according to their flora and fauna sites by sub-catchment. (Refer figures 18 & 19) responsiveness to recharge management options. While significant work is being undertaken and a need to build The result of this prioritisation process was that sub- on asset and threat identification framework remains, current catchments were grouped into one of five categories for knowledge of assets and threats is not absent. Section 3 has salinity control with broad management options assigned described the major assets of the catchment and accordingly. corresponding threats. In terms of threats to the health of natural assets, a distinction should be made between the causes of threats and the symptoms that result from them. For example, clearance of native vegetation has disrupted the balance between rainfall and groundwater recharge. This has resulted in rising water tables and associated salinity. The adoption of an asset-based approach calls for the detailing of major threats to assets and the treating of causes rather than symptoms.

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Figure 18 ~ Threatened fauna sites in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment by sub-catchment

Figure 19 ~ Threatened flora sites in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment by sub-catchment

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3.12 FROM ASSETS AND THREATS TO KEY REGIONAL CHALLENGES AND INTEGRATION TOOLS

A review of the previous RCS, community and stakeholder Primarily the issues of sustainable agriculture, sustainable consultation and the analysis of assets and threats have been fisheries, land-use change, tourism and regional structures are used to determine the management approach. The review examined in this challenge area. Most of this section focuses highlighted strong support for the approach taken in the on industries, for without improvements in the way they use original strategy, which set forward a series of easily and protect resources under their control little will be identifiable issue-based programs (regional sustainability, soils, achieved in terms of asset protection. Three of the other pest plants and animals, water and biodiversity) and structural challenges focus on the protection of priority assets in the programs aimed at providing an efficient and effective form of biodiversity, waterways and coastal areas. Two major framework for natural resource management. The review threats - soil decline and salinity and pest plant and animal emphasised the need to establish measurable targets and infestation - affect the value of all assets across the catchment. improve monitoring and evaluation. It also stressed the need Therefore, addressing these two threats have been identified as for the revised document to provide continuity and priority challenges for action (See Section 5). improvement in the management structures developed through the initial RCS. Community consultation highlighted The review of the first RCS, community and stakeholder strong support for environmental initiatives but that more consultation and asset and threat analysis indicate that should be done. The community perceived that water was a improvements must be made in the way agencies and key asset and recognised that agricultural practices and communities manage environments under their control. There pollution were major threats. Pest plants and animals and is a need to support and build the capacity of relevant salinity also were perceived as key threats to the overall health communities, groups and organisations in a co-ordinated of the catchment. manner to achieve integrated outcomes across the challenge areas. To help provide this support, a series of tools in the form The profiling of the environmental health of natural catchment of strategic planning, regional partnerships, onground works, assets illustrated that loss of biodiversity, soil decline, salinity, community engagement and capacity building and declining water quality, loss of wetlands and pest plant and monitoring, evaluation and reporting are described in animal impacts are key issues. The socio-economic profile Section 6. Further detail of the process of how the challenge highlighted that agricultural production and tourism were key areas and integration tools were developed is provided in industries dependent on a healthy natural resource base. The Appendix 2. Table 7 provides a summary of the region’s key socio-economic profile showed that a shift in population assets, their economic and social value, major threats toward the coastal areas is occurring and that the population impacting on them and how they are addressed in the strategy. is overwhelmingly Anglo-Saxon, highly educated and willing to participate in community-based natural resource management activities, such as Landcare.

On the basis of the environmental and socio-economic profile, the identification of major assets and threats and community and stakeholder consultation, the RCS Working Party and the Board determined six key priority regional challenges and five integration tools on which to focus action over the next five years. This approach was adopted to incorporate the strengths and weaknesses of the first RCS, key community concerns and protection of environmental, economic and social assets from key threats. The first of the challenges - Regional Sustainability - has been chosen as an overarching theme to help provide an integrated response to improving the functional health of the catchment. Hopkins River

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Table 7 ~ Asset, Value, Priority and Threat Summary of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment

Asset Class Environmental Value Economic and Social Values

Biodiversity The region contains many unique land and water-based Regional biodiversity contributes to ecosystems, plants and animals. Some significant areas of tourism, agriculture and fisheries. Helps remnant vegetation remain within bioregions and there are provide fresh water, soil fertility, many rare or endangered species across the catchment. pollination of agricultural crops and pest Threatened fauna includes the Brolga, Red-tailed Black plant and animal control. The existence Cockatoo, Plains Wanderer, Hooded Plover, Little Tern, of biodiversity provides aesthetic value Rufous Bristlebird, Orange-bellied Parrot, Grey-crowned and a sense of place. Commercial fishing Babbler, Heath Mouse, Glenelg Spiny Crayfish, Yarra and is mainly based in marine environment. Ewens Pygmy Perch, Grayling, Eastern Barred Bandicoot, Significant commercial fishing fleet Striped Legless Lizard, Southern Lined Earless Dragon, Brush- operates from local ports catching a tailed Rock Wallaby, Spot-tailed Quoll, numerous species of variety of species. Abalone and rock frog, Smokey Mouse, Lewins Rail, Bush Stone Curlew, lobster fishing occurs in shallower Powerful Owl, Magpie Goose, Great Egret and Swamp Skink. waters. Recreational fishing is popular Threatened flora includes numerous species of grasses, trees, across the catchment and in the marine orchids, grevilleas, various other species and ecological environment. vegetation classes. Marine environments along the Glenelg Hopkins coastline encompass deep, cold water of the Southern Ocean. Abundant and diverse marine flora and fauna are typically cold water temperate species. Threatened marine species include the Southern Right Whale, Great White Shark, Blue Whale and Australian Fur Seal.

Water, Waterways The region has three major river drainage basins - the Hopkins, Extensive water reserves found in rivers, and Wetlands Glenelg, and Portland Coast. The lower section of The Glenelg creeks, lakes, reservoirs, dams and River is listed as a heritage river. Salt-wedge estuaries at the wetlands have significant economic and mouth of rivers entering the sea are environmentally social value and help support tourism, significant. Extensive wetlands are a feature of the Glenelg agriculture and fisheries activities. Hopkins region. Major wetlands include Long Swamp, Glenelg Groundwater reserves are used for Estuary, Lake Bookar, Lake Linlithgow, Lindsay Werrikoo agricultural purposes due to the poor Mundi Selkirk, Lower Merri River, Tower Hill, Yambuk, Lake quality of much of the surface water. Muirhead, Mount William, Lake Bolac, Lake Burrumbeet, Bryans Swamp, Myuna Lane Swamp, Chinamans Swamp, Lake Buninjon, Nerrin Nerrin Swamp. Lake Bookar is part of the Western District Lakes Ramsar site. The region contains substantial reserves of groundwater with varying salinities. Three regional groundwater systems underlie the catchment - the Otway, Murray and Highland - with other shallow local aquifers in existence. Poor surface water quality means the region has a heavy reliance on groundwater.

Soil Eight main soil groups are found within the catchment: Grey Healthy soils underpin agricultural basalt soils, volcanic ash and stony rises soils, soils formed on production, which is vital to economic sedimentary rock, sedimentary soils, red gum country soils, and social activities. There remains krasnozems and red basalt soils, red brown earths, black and significant opportunities to boost grey cracking clays and sands. production. 60,800ha of soils have been identified as highly capable of supporting wine grapes, 21,900ha for dairy and 15,300ha for Blue Gums. Approximately 175,000ha have been identified as suitable for cropping with the benefits of raised beds.

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3.0 CATCHMENT DESCRIPTION

Method of Establishing Major Threats How addressed in the RCS Regional Priorities

Priority biodiversity assets are Loss of habitat and decline in habitat quality is Biodiversity issues are addressed identified through a number of the major threat to the biodiversity asset. specifically in Section 5.2. Issues of processes. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA agriculture, fisheries, tourism, land- In terrestrial environments, habitat decline is Native Vegetation Plan identifies use change and biodiversity are associated with: rare or threatened EVCs. Biodiversity addressed in Section 5.1. Aquatic Action Plans currently being • Pest plant and animal infestation biodiversity is dealt with in Section completed identify priority assets • Clearing and fragmentation 5.3. Specific threats to biodiversity and threats for each bioregion. • Salinity in the form of pest plants and Biodiversity was used as a scoring •Agricultural practices animals and salinity are addressed in criteria for the River Health Strategy • Inappropriate fire regimes Sections 5.4 and 5.5. All integration to identify priority sub-catchments tools detailed in Section 6 seek to • Climate change. for action. Marine-based Action enhance management structures to Plans establish priority areas. In aquatic environments, habitat decline is protect biodiversity. Research associated with: priorities for biodiversity are set • Pest plant and animal invasion and forward in Appendix 4. inappropriate species translocations • Nutrient enrichment, sedimentation, chemical contamination and other agricultural impacts • Lack of environmental flows • Salinity. In marine environments, habitat loss is associated with: • Poor quality catchment run-off, including sewage outfalls and leakages • Marine pests • Shipping • Seismic testing. Community not valuing biodiversity The Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Declining quantity and quality of water resources Water-related issues, including Health Strategy prioritises river leading to reduced ecological health is the major nutrient management, are addressed reaches and sub-catchments threat to the water, waterways and wetland asset. in Section 5.3. Estuary issues are according to the criteria already The declining health of the asset is associated with: addressed in Section 5.6. Wetlands described. There is a need to • Pest plant and animal infestation are addressed in Section 5.2. prioritise regional wetllands. Estuary Aquatic pest plant and animals are • Nutrient enrichment and associated algal blooms management actions are prioritised addressed in Sections 5.3 and 5.5. in the South West Estuaries Plan. • Loss of instream habitat caused by snag Groundwater management processes Groundwater assets are prioritised removal, weirs, sedimentation and loss of are described in Section 5.3. Section by Southern Rural Water. riparian vegetation 5.1 - Regional Sustainability - seeks • Chemical contamination to improve industry practices to •Water diversion protect water quality. All • Drainage integration tools detailed in Section • Salinity. 6 seek to enhance management structures to protect water assets. Groundwater resources are threatened by: Research priorities for water are set • Pesticides forward in Appendix 4. • Salinisation • Animal waste • Over-exploitation of resources Soil assets and threats have been Loss of soil health is the major threat to this asset. Issues regarding threats to soil identified in the Land Resource Declining soil health is associated with: assets (acidification and salinity) are Assessment. The Soils Action Plan to • Salinity described in Section 5.4. All integration tools detailed in Section be completed will identify priority • Acidification sub-catchments for action. The 6 seek to enhance management • Sodicity Salinity Plan highlights sub- structures to protect soil assets. catchments most at risk from • Erosion Research priorities for soil are set salinity. • Compaction forward in Appendix 4. • Loss of soil biota.

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Table 7 ~ Asset, Value, Priority and Threat Summary of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment, continued

Asset Class Environmental Value Economic and Social Values Biodiversity

Parks, Reserves, Major parks found in the catchment are the Bay of Islands National parks and forests are a Forests and Coastal Park, Cape Nelson State Park, Dergholm State Park, significant economic and social resource. Plantations Discovery Bay Coastal Park, Grampians National Park, Lower They help underpin the tourism industry Glenelg National Park, Mount Eccles National Park, Mount and provide employment and Napier State Park, Mount Richmond National Park, Crawford recreational opportunities. Forests and River Regional Park, Ararat Hills Regional Park, Black Range plantations underpin the hardwood and State Park, Mt Buangor State Park, Langi Ghiran State Park softwood sectors of the regional and the Tower Hill State Game Reserve. Numerous other economy. Reference Areas, Wildlife Reserves, Streamside Reserves, Bushland Reserves, Coastal Reserves, Education Areas, Flora Reserves, Lake Reserves and Scenic Reserves are found across the region. Discovery Bay Marine Park has been declared. All parks and reserves have been established to protect significant environmental assets. Significant areas of native forest occur in the region. Extensive areas of pine and Blue Gum plantations are found. Coastal Areas Spectacular coastal formations, such as towering cliffs and Coastal areas support an extensive extensive dune systems, are a feature of the regional tourism market and provide recreational coastline. Rare EVCs and numerous threatened species are opportunities. Significant industries are found in the coastal environment in dunes systems, inter-tidal based on the coast where most of the areas, coastal heathlands and estuaries. region’s population resides.

Infrastructure Regional infrastructure includes roads, bridges, railways, ports, buildings, plant and equipment.

Minerals and Energy Significant reserves of gold, mineral sands, limestone and Mineral reserves are being exploited to basalt are found across the region. There are significant achieve economic growth with associated reserves of renewable and non-renewable energy sources, social benefit. Renewable (wind) and non- such as wind, natural gas and geothermal energy. renewable (natural gas) energy sources are being used increasingly and contributing significantly to economic growth Aboriginal and Aboriginal ethno-botanical knowledge is an important Numerous sites and places of Aboriginal European Cultural component to holistic catchment management. European significance can be found. These include Heritage heritage in the area contains a variety of information middens, scarred trees, stone resources regarding the previous appearance of the landscape arrangements, mounds, stone engravings and the changes that have occurred. sites, rock paintings, surface scatters, fish traps, burial places, stone house sites and quarries. Numerous sites of European heritage, such as historic buildings, infrastructure, avenues of honour, memorials, museums and places are found. Community Extensive involvement in Landcare shows the level of The region has more than 100 Landcare Networks and community support. Benchmarking survey identifies high groups supported by various structures. support for levels of community support and willingness to change Country Fire Authority brigades, Rotary environmental behavior and be involved in natural resource management clubs, scouts and guides groups, church initiatives activities. and religious groups, sporting clubs and various other community networks are found. These include environmental networks such as Birds Australia, Coastcare, Waterwatch, Fishcare, angling clubs, Field Naturalists etc.

Intellectual Capital Significant knowledge exists within the region regarding The existence of significant intellectual and Research catchment processes and management. Landholders, industry capital and research capacity adds much Capacity and government organisations have significant knowledge to the economic and social fabric of the capital. There is extensive research capacity in universities community and supports the adaptive (Deakin, RMIT, University of Melbourne) and other management approach. organisations (Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, DPI/DSE).

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3.0 CATCHMENT DESCRIPTION

Method of Establishing Major Threats How addressed in the RCS Regional Priorities

Priorities for management activities The major threats to this asset are: Issues regarding national parks and in national parks are determined • Salinity forests are described in Section 5.2. through park management plans. The salinity threat is addressed in • Pest plant and animal infestation The West Victoria Regional Forest Section 5.4. Pest plant and animal Agreement sets priorities for • Altered flow regimes threats are described in Section 5.5. management activities in native • Increasing visitor numbers All integration tools detailed in forests. • Disease Section 6 seek to enhance • Pollution management structures to protect • Over-exploitation of resources. parks and forests.

Priorities for management of the The major threats facing the coastal asset are: Issues regarding the coastal asset coastal asset are set forth in the • Pest plant and animal infestation are addressed in Section 5.6. Pest Victorian Coastal Strategy and the plant and animal threats are • Erosion South West Victoria Regional described in Section 5.5. All Coastal Action Plan. • Loss of visual landscape amenity integration tools detailed in Section • Inappropriate development 6 seek to enhance management • Increasing visitor numbers structures to protect coastal areas. • Climate change • Loss of biodiversity • Urban encroachment. • Confusion over management arrangements. Assets are identified in a number of Major threats to regional infrastructure are: The key threat to infrastructure - databases held by a variety of • Salinity salinity - is addressed in Section 5.4. organisations, such as VicRoads and • Erosion Powercor. No prioritisation process has been undertaken. • Lack of maintenance. The major threat to this regional asset is: Issues of rising water tables are • Rising water tables. addressed within Section 5.4.3.

Heritage areas have been identified The major threats to this regional asset are: Issues regarding Aboriginal heritage by the Land Conservation Council. • Lack of identification and understanding are addressed in Section 6.2 and 6.3. Research priorities for this asset are • Erosion established in Appendix 4 • Salinity • Pest plant and animal infestation • Inappropriate development, • Catchment restoration works.

No prioritisation of community The major threats to this asset are: Issues regarding community networks and support for •‘Burnout’ networks are addressed in Sections environmental initiatives has been 6.2 and 6.4. • Funding availability attempted to date. • Lack of support structure • Lack of recognition • Lack of opportunities for involvement • Lack of training opportunities • Loss of engagement, • Population decline and ageing. No prioritisation of intellectual The major threats to this regional asset are: Means of enhancing this regional capital and research capacity has • Lack of capture processes asset are described throughout the integration tools - Section 6. been attempted to date. • Lack of information transfer • Funding availability • Lack of co-ordination • Lack of training opportunities.

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4.0 CATCHMENT TARGETS AND TARGET SETTING

The creation of management systems that allow the community, industry and governments to work together to improve the health of the catchment is a key objective of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA. Establishing targets provides a way to guide actions and measure progress toward desired outcomes. A target-based system allows measurement of current catchment health, shows trends and allows negotiation on how healthy4 the catchment could be and the consequent cost. Targets must provide a clear point of view on what constitutes a healthy catchment and actions must aim to achieve agreed targets.

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4.0 CATCHMENT TARGETS AND TARGET SETTING

Targets must be regularly checked to ensure social, economic Establishing targets for natural resource condition is a core and environmental benefits are being achieved. Therefore, component of the RCS. Work at Federal and State Government targets will be: level has determined three types of targets which regions • Meaningful, clearly reflecting required outcomes should seek to establish - •Measurable 1. Aspirational Targets: Long-term targets which are • At an appropriate scale aspirational statements about the desired condition of regional natural resources in the longer term (50 years). • Reflective of community, stakeholder, State and Federal These targets help guide regional planning and provide a Government priorities context for setting other targets. •Timebound 2. Achievable Resource Condition Targets: Specific • Based on the best available science timebound and measurable targets relating to resource • Clearly linked to management actions condition and achievable within a time frame of • Able to take account of the dynamic nature of the 10-20 years. catchment 3. Management Action Targets: Short-term targets relating •Widely accepted by the community and stakeholders mainly to management actions and capacity building over • Reported annually in an aggregated format in the Glenelg a one to five year timeframe. Hopkins CMA Annual Report.

Table 8 ~ National NRM Outcomes, Matters for Targets and Core Indicators

National Outcomes Matters for Targets Core Indicators National outcomes are aspirational Resource condition matters for targets statements about desired national natural resource outcomes • The impact of salinity on land and • Land salinity. • Area of land threatened by shallow water resources is avoided or • Soil Condition. or rising water tables. reduced. • Native vegetation communities • Soil condition. • Biodiversity and the extent, diversity integrity. • Native vegetation extent and and condition of native ecosystems • Inland aquatic systems integrity distribution. are maintained or rehabilitated. (rivers and other wetlands). • Native vegetation condition. • Populations of significant species and • Estuarine, coastal and marine • River condition. ecological communities are habitats integrity. maintained or rehabilitated. •Wetland ecosystem extent and • Nutrients in aquatic environments. distribution. • Ecosystem services and functions are maintained or rehabilitated. •Turbidity/suspended particulate •Wetland ecosystem condition. matter in aquatic environments. • Surface and groundwater quality is • Estuarine, coastal and marine habit maintained or enhanced. • Surface water salinity in freshwater at extent and distribution. environments. • Estuarine, coastal and marine • Significant native species and habitats condition. ecological communities. • Nitrogen in aquatic environments. 4 • Ecologically significant invasive • Phosphorous in aquatic species. environments. •Turbidity / suspended solids. • Instream salinity. • Selected significant native species and ecological communities extent and conservation status. • Selected ecologically significant invasive species extent and impact.

Source: National Action Plan (2002) Model of the Monitoring and Evaluation Implementation Plan for the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality

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4.1 ASPIRATIONAL TARGETS

Aspirational targets have been determined for each of the key regional challenges identified in the subsequent section of this strategy. These aspirational targets have been determined by a Working Party in close consultation with the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board, Implementation Committees and stakeholders. Measuring progress toward the aspirational targets will be accomplished by establishing appropriate indicators of performance. Table 9 provides a summary of the aspirational targets established in the Glenelg Hopkins region.

4.2 RESOURCE CONDITION TARGETS

Setting accurate resource condition targets is a major undertaking requiring comprehensive monitoring to establish baselines and trends. Over the next three years, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA will establish a complete set of resource condition targets based on sound scientific principles, capable of being accepted and understood by the community and stakeholders and useful in guiding subsequent action. Finalised national outcomes and matters for regional targets will be used to guide the development, scope and implementation of resource condition targets and the adoption of associated indicators. The following table identifies the national natural management outcomes, matters for targets and core indicators proposed under the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality. (Refer table 8)

This RCS focuses on the entire natural resource base rather than just salinity and water quality. Therefore, the aspirational targets, matters for resource condition targets and indicators are broader in scope but will incorporate all matters set forward under the NAP program. Significant work is being undertaken at State and Federal level to determine indicators that will be used to measure progress. At regional level, Deakin University is undertaking a major project to determine indicators of regional sustainability. This work will be invaluable in selecting a range of core indicators. The development of resource condition targets over the next three years will incorporate the identification of accompanying indicators, monitoring requirements and responsibilities.

In some cases, action plans developed in conjunction with this strategy have set interim resource condition targets. Part of the program works for the ongoing development of resource condition targets will involve catchment analysis and modeling to determine the accuracy of the interim resource condition targets. Where interim resource condition targets have been Geoff Williams (pictured) - looking after developed, they are noted in the appropriate section of the natural resources, ensuring the survival of native flora and fauna text and are summarised in table 9.

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4.0 CATCHMENT TARGETS AND TARGET SETTING

Table 9 ~ Aspirational Targets, Interim Resource Condition Targets and Potential Indicators

Aspirational Targets Interim Resource Condition Targets Potential Indicators An improvement in To be determined by 2004. Key indicators are those developed regional by DPI/DSE in Victorian Catchment sustainability as Indicators (2001) and Deakin reflected in key University through the Regional indicators by 2050. Indicators of Sustainability Project. Key indicators also will incorporate those developed by the State and Commonwealth under the National NRM Standards and Targets Framework and associated processes. No net decline and, Glenelg Hopkins CMA Native Vegetation Plan: Interim targets for Key indicators for biodiversity are where appropriate, native species revegetation are to: those developed by DPI/DSE in an increase in 1) increase the overall cover of native vegetation to 30% of the Victorian Catchment Indicators native regional catchment by 2030; (2001) and Deakin University through biodiversity as 2) increase the cover of endangered EVCs to at least 15% of their the Regional Indicators of measured through pre-European vegetation cover by 2030; Sustainability Project. Key key indicators by biodiversity indicators listed in the 3) double the cover of depleted EVCs by 2030. Other targets set 2050. Victorian Catchment Indicators are: forward in the Native Vegetation Plan are to: 1) conservation status of native -To increase the cover of depleted vegetation communities to vegetation types; 15% of their original area by 2030. 2) conservation status of native -To maintain the extent and quality of native vegetation species; communities at Year 2000 levels and to achieve both an 3) native vegetation condition. immediate and incremental Net Gain over the next 30 years. Indicators of aquatic biodiversity are -To increase the level of community participation in vegetation detailed in Section 5.3. Key management to 10,000 individuals (10% of population) by 2010. indicators also will incorporate those developed by the State and Other resource condition targets for biodiversity will be developed Commonwealth under the National by 2004. NRM Standards and Targets Framework and associated processes.

A net increase in Interim resource condition targets established in the Glenelg Key indicators for water are those water quality across Hopkins CMA River Health Plan are: developed by DPI/DSE in Victorian the region and an - There will be no regional decrease in stream length in good to Catchment Indicators (2001), Deakin equitable allocation excellent condition. In The Glenelg Basin, the total stream University through the Regional of water between length in good to excellent condition will increase by 50%. In Indicators of Sustainability Project environmental, the Hopkins Basin, the total stream length in good to excellent and those proposed to be developed social and economic condition will increase from 0% to 10%. In the Portland Coast by the Victorian EPA in the draft uses by 2050 as Basin, the total stream length in good to excellent condition State Environment Protection Policy measured by key will increase by 20%. In each of the three Basins there will be (Waters of Victoria) 2001 and the indicators. less than 10% of reaches in poor or very poor condition. State Environment Protection Policy (Groundwaters of Victoria) 1997. Key - Utilise all flow savings from piping the Wimmera Mallee water indicators listed in Victorian Irrigation System to improve the Environmental Flow regime in Catchment Indicators are: index of The Glenelg River. Increase the number of stream reaches across stream condition, stream pH, stream the region with a hydrology rating of 8/10 (ISC) or above. phosphorus, stream EC, stream - The percentage of water quality monitoring sites in the region nitrogen, stream turbidity, at which the objectives of the SEPP (Waters of Victoria) for compliance with bulk entitlements, salinity are met, is increased by 20%. In the Hopkins Basin aim environmental flows, urban water to have 2 sites at which salinity objectives of the SEPP are met. consumption, irrigation induced - The percentage of water quality monitoring sites in the region drainage flows, irrigation area at which the objectives of the SEPP (Waters of Victoria) are met requiring drainage and groundwater is increased by 20%. allocation and use. Key indicators also will incorporate those - Maintain or increase the Streamside Zone Rating for 80% of developed by the State and reaches throughout the region. Increase the number of reaches Commonwealth under the National in The Glenelg Basin that score 8/10 or greater. Increase the NRM Standards and Targets number of reaches in the Hopkins and Portland Coast Basin Framework and associated that score 5/10 or greater. processes. - There will be no net loss of accessible river length for migratory fishes. The length of accessible river available for migratory fishes will increase. - There will be no decline in the ecological condition of Representative River reaches and their overall and component ISC scores will not decline. (continued page 62)

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Table 9 ~ Aspirational Targets, Interim Resource Condition Targets and Potential Indicators, continued

Aspirational Targets Interim Resource Condition Targets Potential Indicators - There will be no net decline in the ecological condition of Ecologically Health River Reaches and the total length of ecologically health rivers within the region will increase to 250 kilometres. The overall and component ISC scores will not decline. - There will be no decline in the ecological condition of Heritage River reaches. The overall and component ISC scores will not decline. - There will be no carp found in the Heritage River reach. - There will be no predator fish found in the Heritage River reach. - Within a 10 year period the frequency of algal blooms will be reduced by 50% from the current situation. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Nutrient Management Plan, through the implementation of priority activities, aims to reduce the nutrient level in local waterways by 54.5% total phosphorous (TP). Other resource condition targets will be developed by 2004. An improvement in The aspirational target set for the Salinity Plan is: that surface and Key indicators are those developed soil health as groundwater salinity levels do not impact on key regional assets. by DPI/DSE in Victorian Catchment measured by key Indicators (2001) and Deakin Interim surface water salinity targets for 2012 at key catchment indicators by 2050. University through the Regional points are: Indicators of Sustainability Project. - Hopkins River at Wickliffe <15,000EC 90% of the time Key soil health indicators listed in - Hopkins River at Hopkins Falls <7,500 EC 90% of the time the Victorian Catchment Indicators - Glenelg River at Sandford <3,300 EC 90% of the time are water erosion, wind erosion, soil structure decline, soil acidification, -Wannon River at Henty <5,840 EC 90% of the time. groundwater recharge, depth to - Other resource condition targets will be developed by 2004. groundwater and extent and severity of dryland salinity. Key indicators also will incorporate those developed by the State and Commonwealth under the National NRM Standards and Targets Framework and associated processes. By 2050, there will The overall objective of the Rabbit Action Plan is to increase the Key indicators are those developed be a net decline in area under long-term rabbit control by approximately 40,000 ha by DPI/DSE in Victorian Catchment impacts of pest (27%) over the next five years. Other resource condition targets Indicators (2001) and Deakin plant and animal will be developed by 2004. University through the Regional infestations on Indicators of Sustainability Project. private and public Key indicators listed in Victorian land and in aquatic Catchment Indicators for pest plants systems as measured and animals are: 1) rabbit activity; by key indicators. 2) extent and severity of State Priority Weeds. Other indicators such as those for biodiversity act as a proxy indicator for pest plant and animal impacts. Key indicators also will incorporate those developed by the State and Commonwealth under the National NRM Standards and Targets Framework and associated processes. As measured To be determined by 2004. To be determined. Key indicators through key will incorporate those developed by indicators, the the State and Commonwealth under coastal areas of the the National NRM Standards and catchment in 2050 Targets Framework and associated will retain their processes and include targets for unique flora and estuarine areas. fauna and places of natural beauty while supporting a range of diverse and sustainable industries.

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4.0 CATCHMENT TARGETS AND TARGET SETTING

4.3 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS

Regional management action targets are provided for each of the priority regional challenges and integration tool areas identified in the strategy. A collation of the regional management action targets is given in Section 8.

The RCS and the associated regional management action targets have been constructed through a process of detailed consultation with stakeholders and the community. The 137 regional management action targets identified represent a broad spectrum of approaches, locations and agencies across the management spectrum. In some cases the regional management action target identified is specific and relates to the implementation of a supporting plan or strategy within a key regional challenge or implementation tool area. In these cases the relevant plan or strategy should be consulted to determine the priority actions within the area. Within many of the supporting plans and strategies a detailed process of prioritisation has been undertaken. For example the Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy and the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Salinity Plan identify regional and sub-catchment priorities through extensive processes of regional objective establishment, asset and threat identification and consultation to determine priority actions and areas for activity. Other regional management action targets identified in the RCS are in some cases general and will require further refinement over the next five years. This refinement will be informed by baseline identification and scientific research currently being undertaken and through the monitoring and evaluation studies planned within the adaptive management framework. In some instances the regional management action targets identify new fields of action such as the development of environmental management systems on farms. In these cases it will not be until the program has been developed and research undertaken into adoption levels that a meaningful regional target can be established. The Investment Plan accompanying this strategy identifies where possible specific targets to be achieved on a yearly basis such as the length of protective fencing and number of trees to be planted. As knowledge of the catchment grows and the outcomes of management actions become apparent the targets presented within subsequent regional, sub-catchment and issue based strategies and plans will be refined. This refinement will be reflected in subsequent cyclical investment planning

processes. Consulting with the community. Photo: Gill Fry The process of asset identification, threat analysis and consultation has been used to determine the priority regional challenges. The RCS is an overarching long-term document, which represents the goals and aspirations of a variety of organisations and community groups. As such, it is recognised that due to the number of organisations involved, growing level of baseline information and changing catchment condition, priorities are more sensibly and equitably set on a yearly basis through the investment planning process. The methodology of the process to establish regional priorities and projects to meet regional management action targets identified in the RCS is described in section 7.2 of this document.

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5.0 KEY REGIONAL CHALLENGES

The well-being and economic prosperity of the Glenelg Hopkins region is fundamentally dependent on the structural integrity and health of its soils, water systems, quality and quantity of vegetation, diversity of native flora and fauna and coastal systems. These vital assets underpin the regional economy yet continue to be degraded by a variety of threatening processes. As a region, the task is to protect and enhance the natural resource base and contribute to broader sustainability5 goals. As part of the development of the RCS, a comprehensive assessment of the health of the catchment was undertaken. Through this process of analysis and wide community and stakeholder consultation, six key regional challenges have been identified to focus action over the next five years. These areas have been selected for their ability to achieve lasting benefit and change, protect assets that the community values, contribute to regional sustainability, build on past and current activities in the region, meet objectives set by State and Federal Governments and address threatening processes. The major issues involved in each of the regional challenges are explored in subsequent sections of the RCS. The challenge areas should not be regarded as unrelated spheres of action, but easily identifiable planning and action units, which operate together, and impact upon each other.

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5.0 KEY REGIONAL CHALLENGES

5.1 REGIONAL SUSTAINABILITY

5.1.1 RATIONALE

The social and economic future of South West Victoria is directly linked to the health and maintenance of the region’s natural resources and the encouragement and development of human enterprise and innovation. The adoption of sustainability as an overarching regional theme will create a competitive advantage that value adds to goods and services and improves the quality of life for current and future generations. Unlike some other areas of Australia where it is widely accepted that substantial land-use change will be required to meet environmental objectives, strategic actions and investment in the OBJECTIVE Glenelg Hopkins catchment to develop best practice within existing land-use patterns can To contribute to the still make a substantial difference and help build sustainable industries and lifestyles. achievement of sustainability through not only maintaining 5.1.2 SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE the region’s natural resource base but encouraging A key element in meeting the aspirational target for this challenge area is to support the appropriate human enterprise adoption of sustainable agricultural systems that reduce the impact of the agricultural and innovation. sector on the natural resource base and enhance market opportunities. This is vital as major agricultural industries such as beef cattle, dairy, wool, prime lambs and cropping make use of more than 80% of land in the catchment164. Agricultural production generates hundreds ASPIRATIONAL TARGET 1 of millions of dollars for the regional economy and the on-farm practices adopted by An improvement in regional producers impact heavily not only on the regional economy, but the overall sustainability sustainability as reflected in of the catchment. Research commissioned by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA found that pollution key indicators by 2050. and the effects of agricultural practices are key community concerns across the region165.

Sustainable agricultural practices can be defined as those that: 1) preserve and enhance the natural resource base; 2) optimise the productive capacity of land and water; 3) minimise waste and pollution; 4) minimise the use of energy; 5) optimise the opportunities for the processing and sale of regional products; 6) provide viable business opportunities. Growing environmental awareness, incentives and producer and legislative requirements will help drive the adoption of sustainable agricultural systems. These systems will aim to guarantee food quality free from hazards and noxious inputs and address broader environmental concerns, such as waste and pollution production and animal welfare.

Farms are the building blocks of catchment health in the Glenelg Hopkins region. Farmers have shown a growing awareness of the link between unsustainable farming practices and long-term regional production losses due to problems such as salinity, soil erosion, soil degradation, inefficient water use and the declining quality of rivers and streams. A range of farmer-based initiatives are being undertaken across the region. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE have undertaken work in the area of sustainable production systems and the adoption of whole-farm management plans. Research and pilot projects focusing on specific issues, such as the retention of nutrients and effluent, are being developed. Other programs focus on introducing better methods of production, reducing the impact of production on the environment and introducing quality assurance systems. Some Landcare groups have developed action plans dedicated to integrating catchment management issues across farms to address soil erosion, salinity management and control, nutrient management and farming according to land class. Participants in the process have developed a greater focus on holistic approaches to farming and natural resource management.

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Continuing research is vital in identifying ways to achieve provide advice on how to improve practices and stimulate the sustainable agricultural practices. At a minimum, this research development of standards that help substantiate any green or should focus on effective and sustainable soil and pasture biodiversity claims. Such standards could help guide the management, efficient water use, saline agronomy, production development of a biodiversity module for an EMS. The draft efficiency, waste and pollution minimisation, biodiversity and State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) farming practices and the impacts of land-use change and published by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) alternative practices. Farm organisations and rural sociologists identifies that farm plans which aim to implement relevant argue that farmer involvement in setting the research agenda environmental management systems and cleaner production maximises the chances of research results being implemented166 and eco-efficient practices should be adopted169. Developing (See Regional Management Action Target at the end of each effective EMS systems for farms will require government section (RMAT 1 ). support, comprehensive information, well-trained farmers with the capacity to change and a variety of incentive packages. The Victorian Farmers’ Federation, in its Environment Management Guide for Agriculture, argues that primary producers should adopt codes of practice and that farmers should take all reasonable steps to conserve the productivity of land and soil, conserve waterways and water quality, minimise waste, conserve air quality, minimise noise, protect biodiversity, control pest plants and animals and minimise their impacts on sites of Aboriginal cultural heritage. Incentive schemes for EMS development were announced in mid-May, 2002. Farmers who have undertaken EMS training courses will be eligible for a rebate of up to $3,000. Broad tasks fundable under the EMS incentive scheme will be the provision Canola crop. Photo: Gill Fry of professional advice to develop the EMS, tree and shrub While the need for improved natural resource management establishment, fencing to control land degradation and across the agricultural sector is widely accepted, the ability to preserve remnant vegetation, pest plant and animal control, implement change is hampered by a lack of knowledge, skills, upgrading irrigation equipment to enhance efficiency, salinity resources and understanding of future trends in the food and control and the installation of watering points to achieve agricultural sector. There also is the problem of conflicting sustainable grazing practices and move stock away from messages from within and between government and industry. stream banks (RMAT 2, RMAT 3). Agricultural industries will seek managers with greater skills as An important element in improving regional agricultural the complexity of farming systems, environmental sustainability will be to develop greater integration between management and marketing increases. The high average age of sectors. For example, by-products such as dairy waste and farmers, changing land-use patterns and the increasing size effluent could be a valuable input for other sectors. The and vertical integration of industry across the production environmental benefits of introducing more sustainable chain provide opportunities for future action. agricultural practices are readily apparent. What is required is a A discussion paper released by the Natural Resource greater understanding of the impact of current practices on Management Standing Committee167 (NRMSC) highlighted the catchment health and the development of profitable and need to develop Environmental Management Systems (EMS) at practical conservation farming techniques and management the farm level and indicated adoption incentives. The EMS strategies (RMAT 4). Regional agricultural industries could process is an important way by which best practice develop a substantial market advantage by adopting systems environmental management can be disseminated across the that show commitment to ecologically sustainable 170 catchment. Clearly, different agricultural sectors will confront development . Economic inducements for change would be different issues and opportunities and, therefore, EMS the development of regional branding and accreditation guidelines should be constructed for each sector. Important processes, such as those proposed in the South West work toward devising EMS processes is being undertaken at Sustainability Blueprint and the DPI/DSE discussion paper, State and Federal level. A DPI/DSE discussion paper168 seeks to reduced licensing and rating benefits proposed in the NRMSC encourage the conservation and restoration of biodiversity in discussion paper and EMS incentives (RMAT 5, RMAT 6). the Victorian agricultural sector using EMS. The discussion Important work done in the region by DPI/DSE in developing paper proposes that DPI/DSE assist agricultural industries to Environmental Best Management Practice on Farms must be understand the impact of agricultural activity on biodiversity, expanded and integrated with the EMS approach (RMAT 7, RMAT 8).

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5.1.3 SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES

Fishing industries involve harvesting wild stock and developing aquaculture and mariculture-based activities. In addition to the commercial value of fishing, there is a recreational component linked to tourism and leisure. Fish stocks are finite and, therefore, fisheries must be managed in a sustainable manner so the industry can survive and prosper. Given the need for sustainable fishing practices and moves within the industry to incorporate ecologically sustainable development principles in management plans, the issue of sustainable fisheries and fishing is fundamental to meeting the goal of regional sustainability. Fishing generates income and employment and new opportunities are being created through activities in aquaculture and mariculture.

In the context of Australian fisheries, the South West Victorian fishing industry is relatively small. Notwithstanding, it is an important regional industry both in the exploitation and management of the natural resource and the development of land-based fishing enterprises. Major State commercial fisheries include Southern Rock Lobster and abalone, which also support a strong recreational fishery. The region also hosts Commonwealth commercial shark and trawl fisheries. New mariculture ventures exist at Portland and Port Fairy and further options are being explored through public and private sector partnerships. The global demand for seafood is high, with the resource having limits for sustainable exploitation.

Fishing is regulated in Victoria under the Fisheries Act 1995 and, in the case of Commonwealth fisheries such as shark and trawl, by the Australian Fisheries Management Act 1991. The Victorian Abalone Fishery Management Plan and Victorian Eel Fishery Management Plan have been prepared under the Fisheries Act 1995 (RMAT 9, RMAT 10). A management plan for the Victorian Southern Rock Lobster fishery is being undertaken at the time of writing (RMAT 11). The purpose of these plans is to ensure the long-term viability of the resource.

Regional management plans are being prepared across the State. These outline future management directions and arrangements for recreational and/or commercial fishing in a “Fish stocks are finite and, therefore, given waterbody or region. To date, plans have been completed fisheries must be managed in a for the Goulburn-Eildon and Bendigo regions. The preparation sustainable manner so the industry can of similar plans for the South West will ensure the sustainable management of the region’s fisheries. The region’s support and survive and prosper.” passion for recreational fishing and the associated pressures this places on the resource make it an ideal candidate for a regional fisheries management plan (RMAT 12).

Aquaculture is one of Australia’s fastest growing primary industries, with well-managed ventures offering an economical and environmentally sustainable alternative to harvesting wild fish stocks. The potential for an enhanced Victorian aquaculture industry has been recognised and promoted through the Victorian Aquaculture Strategy 1998. While the South West region has some established aquaculture, there is definite scope for further recognition and development. The presence of a leading aquaculture research and education facility in Warrnambool (Deakin University), coupled with suitable and available land and high quality water resources, makes the region ideal for attracting investment (RMAT 13).

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The 2000 Environment Conservation Council Marine Coastal 5.1.4 LAND-USE CHANGE and Estuarine Investigation recommended that a 200ha aquaculture zone be established off the coast of Portland. A study into land-use change in South West Victoria These recommendations have been accepted and approved by highlighted three major land-use changes: dairy farming, crop Fisheries Victoria. However, no waters will be allocated for growing and Blue Gum plantations171. The dairy industry in the aquaculture purposes until an appropriate fisheries reserve southern part of the catchment has grown substantially in management plan is prepared under Section 30 of the recent years. The Natural Resource Action Plan for the Western Fisheries Act 1995. Victorian Dairy Industry describes the potential impacts of the industry on water quality in rivers and lakes, the loss of The health and sustainability of fisheries in South West Victoria biodiversity on farms, the limits on surface and groundwater are influenced by catchment-wide issues, such as nutrient resources and land degradation through soil structure decline management, salinity, removal of native vegetation and and acidification172. The plan highlights the need for declining water quality and flow. Past waterway management collaborative partnerships and changing management culture has severely impacted on fish passage in many of the region’s and on-farm practices (RMAT 14). The expansion in cropping is rivers and streams. Installation of poorly designed gauging reflective of the changing agricultural profile in the South stations and weirs has been to the detriment of many native West. New technologies, such as raised-bed cropping, have species. Recognition of the need for unimpeded fish passage significantly changed the land capability of much of the region through initiatives such as the State Fishway Program will see to support the production of high value crops. Where improvement across the region. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA previously water logging limited land use, there is now the River Health Strategy described in Section 5.3 is the potential for many thousands of hectares to be used for overarching regional document for all aspects of surface water intensive cropping and horticultural practices. The South West management and riverine environments. The discovery of Victoria Horticultural Strategy has the goals of developing European Carp in the Rocklands Reservoir presents a new linkages between horticulture and regional development, challenge to the region’s fisheries. Positive action from all developing efficient and innovative production systems and resource managers is required to minimise the range and establishing the region as a quality and environmentally impacts of this declared noxious species. The issue of aquatic responsible horticultural producer173 (RMAT 15). pests is explored more fully in Section 5.5. Forestry activities could contribute significantly to achieving a number of regional objectives. On-farm forestry can contribute to many environmental objectives and help diversify farm income. The West Regional Forest Agreement Sawlog Farming Project is focused on accelerating investment into integrated hardwood timber plantations on previously cleared land in central and western Victoria, the goal being to provide a hardwood sawlog resource to complement that from public forest. The project seeks to: 1) facilitate links with the timber industry and potential investors; 2) develop comprehensive marketing and technical information; 3) enlist strong community support through active consultation and participation. The project seeks to Managing sustainable fisheries. encourage the establishment of plantations strategically Photo: Courtesy of SWSP. within the landscape to deliver a range of environmental services, such as salinity mitigation, priority weed control and biodiversity enhancement (RMAT 16).

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Over the past three years, commercial forestry has gained 5.1.5 TOURISM increasing prominence due to active government and private sector support for Blue Gum development, softwood Tourism is a significant industry in the region and is mainly plantations and native forest harvesting. Approximately based on natural attractions. Eco-tourism is one of the fastest 60,000ha of Blue Gum plantations have been established in growing segments of the world market175. Tourists are recent years and this rapid expansion has raised issues such as attracted to unique regional landscapes and life forms. Tourism the impact on water tables, best use of land resources, can create an economic incentive for the protection and biodiversity loss, pressure on transport infrastructure and enhancement of resources that sometimes have little perceived social effects174. Plantation companies presents a significant value yet add significantly to the regional economy176. regional opportunity through their expertise and capacity in However, increasing tourism can impact negatively on such mapping, project planning and vegetation establishment. They resources. Improving landscape aesthetics and undertaking possess human and machinery resources capable of wetland restoration-type projects can help increase the establishing vegetation rapidly and successfully. Replacement attraction of a destination while diffusing the impact of of appropriate vegetation is a requirement in many of the tourists by creating alternative attractions. The region can action plans nested under the RCS. The challenge is to harness benefit greatly from working closely with the tourism industry the expertise of timber companies in partnership with to highlight existing attractions along with a growing landholders and Landcare groups to undertake projects with commitment and achievement of ecological restoration and commercial and/or environmentally beneficial outcomes. high quality food production. Sustaining the tourism industry Private forestry is an opportunity to integrate economic and requires the maintenance of high value assets and environmental objectives and provides a productive land-use infrastructure, creation of new attractions and co-ordinated option that offers long-term environmental benefits. Beneficial marketing (RMAT 19). Ecotourism trails that link the natural impacts in terms of greenhouse gas sequestration and the features of the region (e.g. national parks and coastal scenery) creation of alternatives to logging in native forests can be with recreational pursuits (e.g. climbing, fishing, water sports) expected. Timber produced to provide additional and gourmet interests could be promoted. The region’s unique environmental benefits might have a market advantage if cultural heritage and specialty produce such as dairy and certification and labelling schemes are implemented (RMAT 17). aquaculture should be highlighted. Precedents exist in other regions such as West Gippsland’s “Gourmet Food Trail” and The rapid growth in the Blue Gum industry and the associated similarly the Yarra Valley’s “wine and dine” attractions. controversies highlight the issue of future land use and land- use change. Little was known about the likely impact of 5.1.6 TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION plantation establishment on a range of regional values. There is a need to protect high value farmland for its most The ability of the region to adopt technological innovation also productive use and protect regional biodiversity and social will play a prominent role in regional sustainability. A prime values. Changes in land use need to be guided by land driver of this process will be the successful development of capability information to ensure appropriate development. information technology. Access to high quality, regionally This requires the continued development and communication relevant information and services in a variety of rapidly of land capability information (RMAT 18). Informative research available formats will help drive change (RMAT 20). Regional and planning prior to industry establishment is required if leaders such as the DPI/DSE’s Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, many potential problems are to be avoided. Urban Deakin and RMIT Universities and the South West College of encroachment onto valuable agricultural land raises many of TAFE must be at the forefront of the adoption of technological the same issues. Improved planning processes can be achieved innovation. through working closely with local councils to ensure appropriate overlays are built into planning schemes. Sections 6.1 and 6.2 address this issue. There also is a need to build the region’s capacity to undertake timely research into a range of land-use issues. This is addressed in Section 6.1.

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5.1.7 THE SOUTH WEST SUSTAINABILITY PARTNERSHIP

The South West Sustainability Partnership was founded in 1998 and comprises members from water, coast and catchment authorities, local councils and educational institutions. The South West Sustainability Blueprint released in 2001 specifies a series of inter-related themes, goals and actions aimed at achieving a more sustainable South West Victoria. Under the theme of building capacity for regional action, the Blueprint’s goals and actions include: 1) accelerating sustainability as a common core of the regional learning experience; 2) integrating sustainability into the culture of regional organisations; 3) engagement of all sectors and groups in the community to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices; 4) building on past and current activities that promote sustainability; 5) increasing the level of awareness and understanding of sustainability within the community, partner organisations, business, industry and government; 6) making information and knowledge readily available and accessible; 7) creating links with business and industry and optimising the opportunities for partnering.

Under the theme of conserving and enhancing the natural resource base, goals and actions include: 1) reducing regional dependence on non-renewable power and increasing the generation of green power; 2) enhancing the management, maintenance and restoration of the natural resource base; 3) optimising the effective use of existing water resources; 4) enhancing the quality of water resources and providing opportunities for the re-use of wastewater; 5) minimising the impact of human settlement on the environment; 6) minimising the creation of waste and maximising the conversion of waste to productive purposes; 7) a substantial reduction in the level of greenhouse gas produced from transport.

Under the theme of creating greater prosperity through sustainability as a competitive advantage, the goals include: 1) establishing processes and activities to support sustainable production systems; 2) promoting the adoption of sustainable fishing practices; 3) promoting opportunities for mariculture and aquaculture development177 (RMAT 21).

The South West Sustainability Blueprint sets a number of goals and key actions in which the Glenelg Hopkins CMA will play a

Aiming towards a more sustainable future. central role. It highlights the importance of a co-ordinated Photo: Courtesy of SWSP. regional response and opportunities to enhance strategic planning across the region. The challenge in terms of regional sustainability is to enhance agricultural sustainability, make use of existing forestry expertise, build tourism through restoring and enhancing the natural resource base, ensure the capacity to adopt new technology and implement key actions from the South West Sustainability Blueprint.

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5.1.8 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR REGIONAL SUSTAINABILITY

RMAT 1 Increase management options available to RMAT 12 Support sustainable development of regional producers through supporting research into more fisheries resources through preparing the Glenelg sustainable agricultural practices. Hopkins Regional Fisheries Management Plan. RMAT 2 Reduce impact of agricultural production on RMAT 13 Facilitate regional implementation of the Victorian catchment health through the development of a Aquaculture Strategy. co-ordinated regional EMS project. RMAT 14 Reduce the impact of the dairy industry on the RMAT 3 Increase regional capacity to adopt EMS through health of the catchment through facilitating facilitating regional implementation of accredited implementation of key actions from the Western EMS training courses. Victoria Dairy Industry Natural Resource Plan RMAT 4 Undertake research to determine the impact of RMAT 15 Support the sustainable development of regional current farming practices on catchment health and horticultural industries through facilitating disseminate these to the community. implementation of key actions from the South RMAT 5 Investigate regional branding and accreditation West Victoria Horticulture Strategy. programs to capture potential economic benefits RMAT 16 Deliver a range of environmental services of cleaner production. through facilitating and expanding regional RMAT 6 Provide support for EMS adoption through implementation of the West RFA Sawlog Farming investigating the feasibility of rating incentives for Project. participating producers. RMAT 17 Establish partnerships with plantation companies RMAT 7 Develop industry-specific best practice EMS to harness forestry expertise. guidelines for incorporation into whole-farm RMAT 18 Continue development and communication of land planning. capability information to guide land-use change RMAT 8 Build capacity across the farming sector and decisions. through Landcare to incorporate more sustainable RMAT 19 Build partnerships between natural resource and practices into agricultural production. tourism sectors to highlight and add value to RMAT 9 Support sustainable development of the abalone environmental protection and restoration resource through facilitating regional measures. implementation of the Abalone Fishery RMAT 20 Build regional capacity to implement change Management Plan. through heightening awareness of relevant RMAT 10 Support sustainable development of the eel sustainability-related information. resource through facilitating regional RMAT 21 Support regional sustainability initiatives through implementation of the Eel Fishery Management facilitating implementation of key actions from the Plan. South West Sustainability Blueprint. RMAT 11 Support sustainable development of the rock lobster resource through finalising and implementing the Victorian Southern Rock Lobster Management Plan.

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5.2 BIODIVERSITY

5.2.1 RATIONALE

The term biodiversity refers to the components of biological life, such as species, ecosystems, plants, animals, fungi, bacteria and other micro-organisms, their diversity and inter-actions. The Glenelg Hopkins region is the custodian of significant, but often threatened, biodiversity found in unique and complex systems on land, in soil, fresh water, estuaries and the sea. Natural and managed ecosystems help maintain fresh water and fertile soil, pollination of agricultural crops, pest control, flood mitigation and the OBJECTIVE breakdown of pollutants178. Regional biodiversity also provides fish and timber, plants To protect, enhance and and animals for breeding programs and genetic material for biotechnology applications. increase indigenous biodiversity Tourists are attracted to the region to see unique life forms and landscapes. The on public and private land and Grampians National Park alone attracts more than 1.5 million visitors a year,179 in aquatic systems within the contributing more than $200 million to the Victorian economy180. Research undertaken Glenelg Hopkins region. on behalf of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA found that community knowledge of biodiversity and its importance was low181 (RMAT 22). ASPIRATIONAL TARGET 2 Numerous ecological vegetation classes (EVC) and flora and fauna species have become No net decline and, where extinct and many more are threatened. The major threat to biodiversity across the region appropriate, an increase in is the destruction of habitat. Extensive clearing of native vegetation in the years since native regional biodiversity as European settlement has drastically reduced the extent and quality of available habitat measured through key for native species. While salinity has been recognised as a natural feature of the region, indicators by 2050. extensive clearing has greatly increased the areas affected and has the potential, if unchecked, to further reduce suitable habitat in aquatic and terrestrial environments. The region is considered one of the areas most at risk from rising water tables and dryland salinity. Introduced plants and animals also impact heavily on native biodiversity. Rabbits threaten entire landscape values. They have been identified as major contributors to soil erosion and as grazing threats to endangered species. They compete with native species for habitat resources and artificially lift the carrying capacity of land systems for other predators, such as the fox. Foxes pose an enormous threat to native wildlife through their predatory behavior. Recently identified infestations of European Carp have the potential to severely affect the quality of aquatic habitats. Environmental weeds invade native vegetation and aquatic environments and adversely affect the regeneration of indigenous flora and fauna. Outcomes associated with agricultural activities, such as the nutrient enrichment of waterways, also can have a severe impact by increasing the occurrence of algal blooms. Within marine environments, the greatest threats to biodiversity are related to activities within the catchment. These activities result in poor quality run-off that degrades the habitat, other forms of pollution and the over-exploitation of resources. Changing climate patterns also have the ability to further degrade regional habitat. Many of the region’s plants and animals have evolved within a narrow range of temperature and rainfall variability; significant changes in this variation has the potential to affect the range of available habitats (RMAT 23).

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Native vegetation now covers less than 13% of the region. Interim targets for native species revegetation are to: Existing parks and reserves help preserve a proportion of 1) increase the overall cover of native vegetation to 30% of regional biodiversity, but face major threats from salinity, the catchment by 2030; increasing visitor numbers and pest plants and animals. Parks 2) increase the cover of endangered EVCs to at least 15% of and reserves occupy 8% of the region but are highly their pre-European vegetation cover by 2030; fragmented. This means that without coordinated action to 3) double the cover of depleted EVCs by 2030183. enhance biodiversity through greater habitat connectivity and Other targets set forward in the Native Vegetation Plan are: to integrated pest management the biodiversity values within the increase the cover of depleted vegetation communities to 15% parks system are at greater risk. Parks and reserves help of their original area by 2030; to maintain the extent and protect core biodiversity assets and their successful ongoing quality of native vegetation communities at Year 2000 levels and management is of the utmost importance. The role of Parks to achieve both an immediate and incremental Net Gain over Victoria is to maintain the ecological integrity of and natural the next 30 years; and to increase the level of community processes within the system by implementing programs that participation in vegetation management to 10,000 individuals reduce the greatest threats to the highest environmental (10% of population) by 2010. (RMAT 26). Bushcare programs values in parks and reserves. Individual park management funded under the Natural Heritage Trust have provided an plans developed by Parks Victoria identify priority actions and important source of funds to begin implementing the Native should be implemented as a priority (RMAT 24). Parks Victoria Vegetation Plan (RMAT 27). VicRoads and some councils are needs to be involved as an active participant for the protection preparing roadside vegetation plans that help meet some of the of biodiversity both in and between parks and reserves. Within plan’s objectives (RMAT 28). Conservation covenants sponsored the region there is only about 1,000 square kilometres of by the Trust for Nature have been used across the region to predominantly intact original native vegetation on private protect high value areas of remnant vegetation (RMAT 29). The land. The majority of rare EVC occur on private land and, as BushTender process being trialed in Gippsland offers such, their conservation will require the co-operation and landholders payments for entering into agreements to provide assistance of private landowners to protect them from management services that improve the quality or extent of threatening processes182 (RMAT 25). native vegetation on their land. It enables landholders to establish their own price for the management services they are 5.2.2 THE DRAFT GLENELG HOPKINS CMA NATIVE prepared to offer to improve their native vegetation. The price VEGETATION PLAN forms the basis of their bid, which is compared with bids from Implementing the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Native Vegetation Plan other landholders participating in the process. The successful 184 is a key way to meet the aspirational target set for this regional bids are those that offer the best value for money (RMAT 30). challenge. The plan argues that it is vital to protect and The Native Vegetation Plan highlights the importance of enhance remnant vegetation, particularly those areas that are wetlands in maintaining ecological processes. Protecting and uncommon or contain rare or threatened species. Islands of restoring wetlands involves maintaining or replacing fringe remnant vegetation are considered more susceptible to vegetation and ensuring they are not drained or compromised threatening processes, such as regional species extinction, by activities in surrounding areas. Once a defining weed invasion and pest animals. Therefore, it is necessary to characteristic of the region, wetlands have declined in revegetate the catchment with appropriate species and quantity and quality. Lake Bookar is part of the Western establish corridors to link blocks of remnant vegetation. District Lakes Ramsar site, which is administered through a Important examples of native vegetation are found along strategic management plan (RMAT 31). The rest of the lakes roadside reserves, railway lines and in cemeteries, and within the system fall within the neighboring Corangamite appropriate management of these areas is vital. The plan sets a CMA and joint projects to protect and enhance the site should number of key actions and targets and highlights the need for be formulated (RMAT 32). community engagement, ongoing research, partnerships with local government and other agencies and effective monitoring of the plan against targets. Implementing the plan involves developing cost-sharing and incentive schemes, enforcing native vegetation controls and developing regional guidelines for native vegetation retention based on the net gain principle.

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Since European settlement, there has been a huge reduction in 5.2.3 REGIONAL BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION the region’s wetlands due to drainage for agricultural production. Some 37% of Victoria’s wetlands have been Historically, work on threatened and endangered species has drained, of which 90% are on private land. Many of those held a high profile in the region. The Flora and Fauna remaining are threatened by continuing degradation from Guarantee Act 1988 provides a legal framework for the salinity, drainage and agricultural practices. In the Glenelg protection of Victoria’s native species and for major programs Hopkins region, 78% of the shallow fresh water meadows and of State Government and community action185. Action 66% of the deep fresh water meadows have been lost through statements created under the auspices of the Act describe drainage. Shallow fresh water marshes have declined from threatened plant and animal species, biological communities 42,000ha to 12,000ha. The region contains 44% of Victoria’s and potentially threatening processes. Regional DPI/DSE staff remaining wetland sites, which provide important habitat for have a role in creating and implementing action statements many migratory birds listed under international conventions. and recovery plans for threatened species (RMAT 34). In the There is an obligation to manage those remaining in a positive case of listed threatened aquatic species, only one action and protective way for the benefit of regional, national and statement has been written (Ewen’s Pygmy Perch). Action international communities. Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy statements proposed under the Act are for The Glenelg Spiny highlights that the most significant challenges in managing Crayfish, Glenelg Freshwater Mussel, Australian Grayling, wetlands for biodiversity relate to tackling major issues such as Dwarf Galaxias and Yarra Pygmy Perch (RMAT 35). wetland drainage, changes to water regimes and salinity. The Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Opportunities exist across the region, particularly in areas Conservation Act 1999 establishes a framework for constructing such as Lake Condah, to undertake wetland restoration that recovery plans. Similar to the Victorian provisions, these set out will have significant environmental, cultural and tourism the actions necessary to support the recovery of threatened benefits. However, little regional planning has been species or ecological communities to maximise their long-term undertaken to protect the majority of these wetlands. There is chances of survival. When approved by the relevant Minister, a need to construct a detailed management action plan that they become statutory documents. They help provide investigates more fully this asset and identifies threats, important information for decision-makers when assessing priorities and remedial actions (RMAT 33). development applications. Threat abatement plans provide for The issue of the protection of aquatic biodiversity in riverine research, management and other actions necessary to reduce systems is explored more fully in Section 5.3. Management the impact of a threatening process on an endangered species approaches to controlling the spread of salinity to protect or ecological community (RMAT 36). biodiversity are documented in Section 5.4 while the issues of Through bioregional networks and strategic planning, regional pest plants and animals is explored in Section 5.5 endeavors aim to create a learning environment and assist land managers identify and protect threatened flora and fauna communities. This is achieved through biodiversity asset mapping, partnership building, participation in regional planning, threat abatement planning and provision of advice. DPI/DSE staff have responsibility for game management and flora and fauna possession and control. This includes monitoring illegal take, managing problem native species and supporting carers networks, land for wildlife and botanic guardians programs. DPI/DSE also have responsibility for bioregional planning, management of threatened and non threatened native flora and fauna species and communities and community education and participation programs such as Land for Wildlife and Botanic Guardians. Lake Condah Partnership Project. Photo: Linda Grant

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Biodiversity Action Planning (BAP) being undertaken by 4) control invasive species; DPI/DSE is a structured approach to identifying priorities and 5) mitigate dryland salinity; mapping significant areas for native biodiversity conservation 6) promote ecologically sustainable grazing; at the landscape and bioregional scales. Bioregions are broad- 7) minimise impacts of climate change on biodiversity; scale mapping units for biodiversity planning in Victoria and 8) maintain and record indigenous people’s ethno-biological have been adopted under Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy. knowledge; Outcomes sought in the Victorian Biodiversity Strategy across 9) improve scientific knowledge and access to information; the bioregions are: to protect and restore depleted Ecological 10) introduce institutional reform. Vegetation Classes (particularly grasslands); ongoing identification of significant sites; preservation and restoration The Australian and New Zealand Environment and of riparian vegetation and wetland areas; implementation of Conservation Council’s (ANZECC) Biological Advisory park management plans; and determination of appropriate fire Committee has set biodiversity conservation research 189 regimes. Associated Bioregion Action Plans take a strategic priorities . They involve identifying and mapping threatened approach to the conservation of native species by looking for ecological communities and species, monitoring changes in opportunities to conserve groups of species in appropriate biodiversity, developing biodiversity data and information ecosystems. The BAP system recognises that not all areas of the systems, developing methods for estimating the landscape have the same return on investment for native environmental, social and economic value of ecosystem biodiversity and, therefore, seeks to identify where the most services and investigating incentives appropriate to local significant areas are within a bioregion. Having identified the government to preserve biodiversity. Also needed are: a location of these assets, it is then possible to ensure determination of significant threats to ecosystems and conservation actions focus on the maintenance and remnant habitat; determination of the conservation status of restoration of the ecosystems186. Under the BAP system, species; determination of an adequate and representative strategies for conserving biodiversity for each of the system of conservation reserves; assessment of the risks to bioregions within the catchment are being undertaken. biodiversity and the development of management strategies; development of predictive modeling techniques; identification For example, the draft strategy for conserving biodiversity in of management options and development of scientifically- the Warrnambool Plain bioregion aims to: based educational materials. The challenge for the region is to •Model a regional approach, rather than a single species contribute to meeting the objectives set by State and Federal approach, to biodiversity management Governments (RMAT 38). This can be achieved by building on the existing regional framework provided by legislation and • Identify mechanisms for more effectively conserving programs, undertaking appropriate research and planning and key biodiversity assets in the study area by focusing on striving for better integration and understanding of the management of key threats across all land tenures biodiversity across government, industry, agricultural, •Identify priorities for conservation and restoration of community and local government actions. Key regional biodiversity projects currently underway can help meet some of these • Present priorities in spatial form so that they can be objectives, although a wider plan of action is required. overlain with those of other environmental programs, Biodiversity and wetland asset registers are being constructed such as salinity control and greenhouse amelioration, at local government level and protocols for protecting to encourage synergies187. biodiversity are being developed to minimise the impact of

Completion of BAPs for each bioregion will help fill many new developments and programs (RMAT 39, RMAT 40). information gaps in the current regional planning and Biodiversity conservation is a key issue for many groups, such investment framework. They should be completed as a matter as the Threatened Species Network, Birds Australia and local of urgency (RMAT 37). environmental groups. In addition, many organisations - e.g. universities, museums and the CSIRO - have a range of The Federal Government has set 10 priority actions for resources and expertise that must be harnessed (RMAT 41). biodiversity conservation and a series of associated targets188. Biodiversity protection must have a variety of focuses. The priority actions are to: Traditional single species focuses have an important role in 1) protect and restore native vegetation and terrestrial highlighting what is at risk and help build awareness of the ecosystems; need for the preservation and enhancement of critical habitats 2) protect and restore fresh water ecosystems; that will have multiple biodiversity outcomes. 3) protect and restore marine and estuarine ecosystems;

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5.2.4 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR BIODIVERSITY

RMAT 22 Move toward achievement of biodiversity RMAT 32 Investigate joint projects with Corangamite CMA aspirational target by building regional capacity to protect significant wetlands. through training and education programs to RMAT 33 Achieve a variety of biodiversity and water quality increase awareness of regional biodiversity assets, targets through development of a Regional values and threats. Wetland Action Plan. RMAT 23 Address potential climate change threats to RMAT 34 Contribute to meeting biodiversity aspirational biodiversity through investigation and preparation target through reviewing, refining and of an appropriate strategic response. implementing relevant Flora and Fauna Guarantee RMAT 24 Protect important biodiversity values found in the Action Statements. parks network through the implementation of park RMAT 35 Contribute to meeting biodiversity aspirational management plans. target through completing and implementing RMAT 25 Achieve native vegetation resource condition Action Statements and Recovery Plans for listed targets through building partnerships with private threatened species. landholders to preserve rare EVCs. RMAT 36 Reduce threats to biodiversity assets through RMAT 26 Achieve native vegetation resource condition developing regional Threat Abatement Plans. targets through implementing key actions from the RMAT 37 Facilitate regional implementation of Victoria’s Glenelg Hopkins CMA Native Vegetation Plan. Biodiversity Strategy and complete associated RMAT 27 Achieve native vegetation resource condition Bioregion Action Plans. targets through facilitating regional RMAT 38 Identify regional biodiversity research priorities implementation of the Bushcare program. and undertake appropriate research. RMAT 28 Achieve native vegetation resource condition RMAT 39 Build capacity and knowledge of industry and local targets through supporting the development and government to plan and protect biodiversity, implementation of Roadside Vegetation Plans. particularly threatened species and critical RMAT 29 Achieve native vegetation resource condition habitat. targets through the development of conservation RMAT 40 Reduce threats to biodiversity asset through covenants to protect areas of high value remnant implementing biodiversity protocols. vegetation. RMAT 41 Build partnerships with conservation groups, RMAT 30 Investigate the feasibility of regional recovery teams, universities and museums to help implementation of the Bush Tender process to preserve biodiversity. achieve native vegetation resource condition targets. RMAT 31 Protect internationally significant wetlands through implementation of the Western District Lakes Ramsar Site Strategic Management Plan.

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5.3 WATERWAY HEALTH AND WATER QUALITY

5.3.1 RATIONALE

Clean, usable water resources have underpinned economic and social development across the region. Water availability has guided past patterns of development and will continue to do so. Water is a finite and precious resource. Water management and conservation issues were identified as key concerns by the community. Rivers, streams, estuaries, lakes and wetlands were considered by the majority of the community as the environmental assets they valued most. Major threats to water were perceived to be pollution from farming activities, salinity, erosion and over-use of resources190. The vital importance of OBJECTIVE water in sustaining human and environmental health has been expressed in numerous To maintain and enhance the national and international forums, which have highlighted water as the most critical issue ecological health of the of the 21st century. region’s water resources and waterways while maintaining High quality fresh water is one of the region’s most important natural assets and a economic and social resource at enormous risk. Good management of water resources requires an in-depth development. understanding of the effects of adjacent land management on water quantity and quality. The way soils are managed through agricultural practices has a profound effect on the ASPIRATIONAL TARGET 3 quality of water, with nutrient enrichment, soil erosion, acidification, salinisation and chemical contamination being some of the greatest threats. The success of other A net increase in water quality initiatives detailed in this strategy in terms of sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, pest across the region and an plants and animals and salinity will have a significant impact on water quality. equitable allocation of water Traditionally, good water quality meant an absence of artificial chemicals and pollutants. between environmental, social While this chemical definition still applies, the interpretation of water quality is now and economic uses by 2050 as taken to be a healthy water body with a near natural balance of fish, invertebrates, plants measured by key indicators. and algae and appropriate in-stream, riparian and floodplain habitats191. The alteration of stream flows is an important issue that impacts on water quality. The reduction of environmental flows in the Glenelg River as a result of the completion of the Rocklands Reservoir and the shift of water to the Wimmera Mallee has resulted in numerous environmental problems.

5.3.2 WATERS OF VICTORIA STATE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION POLICY

The Health of the Catchment Report prepared as a component of this strategy describes the poor condition of many of the rivers, wetlands and estuaries. In many cases, rivers have been denuded of riparian vegetation and suffer from declining water quality192. This is similar to many of the river systems within the State and across the nation. The statutory framework for protecting Victoria’s surface waters is managed by the EPA through the State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) 1988. This SEPP is being reviewed and updated. A draft of the new SEPP sets a statutory framework for the protection and use of Victoria’s fresh and marine water environments. It describes the beneficial uses which need to be protected. These include aquatic ecosystems, water suitable for aquaculture, water-based recreation, water suitable for human consumption, cultural and spiritual values, water suitable for industry, water suitable for agriculture, water suitable for navigation and shipping and water suitable for the consumption of fish, crustacea and molluscs. The draft SEPP sets out a series of environmental quality objectives and indicators to be developed to measure whether beneficial uses are being protected.

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This is reflected in the monitoring and evaluation program CMAs are recognised as key organisations within regions for proposed across the catchment. The draft SEPP also articulates integrated catchment management and river restoration194. clear roles and responsibilities for environmental protection The Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy is the means and rehabilitation and identifies key strategic actions and tools through which the State-wide vision can be achieved at the to address activities that pose a risk to Victoria’s waterways. regional scale. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy According to the document, a goal of CMAs should be to assist (RHS) is the overarching document for all aspects of surface urban and rural landholders to use land sustainably and reduce water management for riverine environments. It assesses and the impact of catchment activities on surface waters integrates all river health issues throughout the region to (RMAT 42). ensure that actions provide multiple benefit outcomes. Sub- plans underpinning the RHS are either specific issues-based, 5.3.3 THE VICTORIAN AND GLENELG HOPKINS CMA such as the Nutrient Management Plan, or waterway-based, RIVER HEALTH STRATEGIES such as the Surry River Restoration Plan. Investment in river health in the region is based on the framework outlined in the Protection of beneficial uses across the catchment will be Victorian River Health Strategy and has been further refined to achieved through a variety of programs. The objective of the the following: Victorian River Health Strategy is to achieve healthy rivers, • Priority 1 - Maintain special high value assets - this streams and floodplains that meet the economic, recreational includes heritage river reaches, existing and cultural needs of current and future generations. The ‘ecologically healthy’ reaches. vision set forward in the strategy is that waterways will: • Priority 2 - All high and moderate valued rivers to be 1) support a diverse range of indigenous plants and animals; maintained. 2) be flanked by a continuous swathe of native riparian vegetation; • Priority 3 - All high and moderate valued rivers to be 3) follow natural flow patterns that rise and fall with the enhanced with priority to those closest to seasons, inundating floodplains and filling billabongs; ecological health. 4) contain water quality sufficient to sustain crucial • Priority 4 - In low valued rivers - building and maintaining ecological functions, with native fish and other species community capacity. moving freely throughout the system; • Priority 5 - In low valued rivers - maintenance of existing 5) be capable of replenishing lakes and estuaries; values. 6) show preservation of values fundamental to indigenous • Priority 6 - In low valued rivers - enhancement of values. cultures. All environmental, social and economic values have been This vision is to be achieved while providing the basis for identified for each sub-catchment and been grouped into the efficient agricultural and other industry uses, supplying clean following ratings: (Refer table 10) and safe drinking water, providing water-based recreational outlets and maintaining the river’s place in our collective history193.

Photo courtesy of Gill Fry

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Each sub-catchment has been assessed for threats and risks to • There will be no carp found in the heritage river reach. each valuable asset. The actions are based on maintaining these • There will be no predator fish found in the heritage river assets and, where resources are available, enhancing the values reach. of high and moderate value reaches as per the prioritisation • Within a 10 year period the frequency of algal blooms framework. Key actions in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA River will be reduced by 50% from the current situation. Health Strategy are designed to maintain all high value reaches, maintain all moderate value reaches and enhance high value The RHS sets programs for strategic planning, research and reaches. Interim resource condition targets established in the investigation, communications, onground works and Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy are: monitoring and evaluation (RMAT 43). • There will be no regional decrease in stream length in good to excellent condition. In The Glenelg Basin, the total stream length in good to excellent condition will increase by 50%. In the Hopkins Basin, the total stream length in good to excellent condition will increase from 0% to 10%. In the Portland Coast Basin, the total stream Table 10 ~ Sub-Catchment River Health Priorities length in good to excellent condition will increase by Sub-catchment Asset Value Rank 20%. In each of the three Basins there will be less than 10% of reaches in poor or very poor condition. g6 - Glenelg River - Grampians headwaters 1 • Utilise all flow savings from piping the Wimmera Mallee h13 - Merri River 1 Irrigation System to improve the Environmental Flow h6 - Lower Mt Emu Creek 1 regime in The Glenelg River. Increase the number of g1 - Glenelg Estuary 4 stream reaches across the region with a hydrology rating g13 - Grange Burn 5 of 8/10 (ISC) or above. p6 - Moyne River 5 • The percentage of water quality monitoring sites in the p4 - Darlots Creek 5 region at which the objectives of the SEPP (Waters of h2 - Hopkins River & Blind Creek 5 Victoria) for salinity are met, is increased by 20%. In the p5 - Eumeralla River 5 Hopkins Basin aim to have 2 sites at which salinity p2 - Surry River 5 objectives of the SEPP are met. h5 - Upper Hopkins River 5 • The percentage of water quality monitoring sites in the h9 - Burrumbeet Creek 5 region at which the objectives of the SEPP (Waters of g3 - Mid Glenelg River 5 Victoria) are met is increased by 20%. g10 - Wannon River - Dwyers Creek to falls 14 • Maintain or increase the Streamside Zone Rating for 80% g11 - Wannon River - Grampians headwaters 14 of reaches throughout the region. Increase the number of reaches in the Glenelg Basin that score 8/10 or greater. g5 - Glenelg River & Mathers Creek 14 Increase the number of reaches in the Hopkins and g7 - Crawford River 14 Portland Coast Basin that score 5/10 or greater. h1 - Hopkins River & Brucknell Creek 18 • There will be no net loss of accessible river length for h11 - Lower Fiery & Salt Creek 18 migratory fishes. The length of accessible river available g9 - Lower Wannon River 18 for migratory fishes will increase. p3 - Fitzroy River 21 • There will be no decline in the ecological condition of h3 - Hopkins River & Mustons Creek 21 representative river reaches and their overall and g2 - Lower Glenelg River 21 component ISC scores will not decline. h4 - Mid Hopkins River 24 • There will be no net decline in the ecological condition of p1 - Portland and Wattle Creek 24 ecologically health river Reaches and the total length of g4 - Glenelg River - Dundas Tablelands 24 ecologically healthy rivers within the region will increase h8 - Upper Mount Emu Creek 24 to 250 kilometres. The overall and component ISC scores g8 - Stokes River 24 will not decline. h12 - Upper Fiery Creek 24 • There will be no decline in the ecological condition of g12 - Bryans Creek 30 heritage river reaches. The overall and component ISC h10 - Trewalla Creek 30 scores will not decline. h7 - Mid Mt Emu Creek 30

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5.3.4 NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

The Glenelg Hopkins Nutrient Management Plan is a State Government-accredited plan that aims to reduce nutrient input into waterways, improve river health and prevent the escalation of blue green algal occurrences. The major sources of nutrients in waterways are from diffuse sources, such as agricultural run-off, or point sources, such as sewage treatment plants (STP) and dairy shed effluent. The following table summarises the estimated annual nutrient loads for point and diffuse sources within the region. (Refer table 11)

Algal blooms are estimated to cost the Glenelg Hopkins region $1.9 million a year195. The Nutrient Management Plan is a key to protecting beneficial uses. Within the plan, costed actions are identified to: 1) control gully erosion; 2) stabilise stream banks; 3) restore river reaches; 4) manage intensive animal industries; 5) better manage farm nutrient balances. Also provided are details of programs which identify improvements in forest and public land management activities, urban stormwater and wastewater. A detailed research and investigation, monitoring and co-ordination works plan is provided. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Nutrient Management Plan, through the implementation of priority activities, aims to reduce the nutrient level in local waterways by 54.5% total phosphorous (TP) over the next thirty years (RMAT 44, RMAT 45). Nutrients such as dairy effluent should be recognised as a valuable agricultural input rather than just a waste product. Research and development into efficient retention systems, efficient reuse systems and the creation of a regional outlet or market for waste products, such as dairy effluent, should be undertaken (RMAT 46).

Table 11 ~ Estimated annual nutrient loads for point and diffuse sources in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region

Diffuse Sources of Nutrients Total Phosphorous Total Nitrogen Landuse tonne/ha/yr Tonne/ha/yr Cropping 25 159 Horticulture 1.8 2.8 Irrigated pasture 20 165 Crown land 13 147 Dryland grazing 169 3,190 Remnant vegetation 0.6 15 Plantations 0.8 28 Point Sources of Nutrients Coleraine STP 0.3 0.8 Hamilton STP 2.4 4.1 Casterton STP 1.4 2.0 Ararat STP 3.8 10 Beaufort STP 7.0 1.9 Ballarat STP 1.9 48.3 Terang STP 0.8 1.3 Dairy 18 141 Stormwater sewered 9.0 87 Stormwater unsewered 47 102 Piggery 0.4 2.8 Source: Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Glenelg Hopkins Nutrient Management Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 80 6389 GHCMA Strategy.qxd 5/9/03 4:22 PM Page 81

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5.3.5 REGIONAL DRAINAGE AND FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Rural Drainage Strategy examines Victorian Government’s water reform framework, water rights the impact of gazetted drainage schemes on the environment in these systems are now managed through Bulk Entitlements and remediation measures. It attempts to consolidate and (BEs). BEs are issued to urban or rural water authorities and, in expand upon existing rural drainage management strategies some cases, the environment. BEs define the total volume of and practices. The strategy sets targets and priorities for water an authority may take from the system and detail the regional action and investigates investment, cost-sharing and rate and reliability of supply. Conversion of previously poorly drainage management options (RMAT 47). The Regional defined rights to water to BEs is currently being undertaken. Floodplain Management Strategy sets forward a plan of action Although the purpose of this process is to clarify the water to maintain and enhance the capacity of the floodplain to rights of existing users and improve security of supply, convey and store water while implementing flood management improvements in water availability for the environment are a measures which reduce flood risk and damage costs and allow consequence in 82% of cases197. the hydraulic and environmental benefits of the floodplain (RMAT 48). The BE process for the Wimmera/Glenelg system is in progress and scheduled for completion by the end of December, 2002. 5.3.6 WATER ALLOCATION This process, along with implementation of the Northern Mallee pipeline, has generated an additional 34,690ML/year (ML = one The equitable allocation of water between human, industrial million litres) in environmental water entitlements for The and environmental uses is a significant Australia-wide Glenelg and Wimmera systems. This process will provide challenge. In the past 15 years, there has been a growing increased security of supply of environmental water awareness of water as a finite and scarce resource and that requirements for The Glenelg River, with subsequent much of our use of the resource is dependent on the ongoing improvements in water quality and riverine habitat. protection of quality. The Victorian Water Act 1989 provides a framework for protecting the environment through The need for adequate environmental flows in The Glenelg environmental flow regimes and related measures, River is further recognised through the Determination of consumptive entitlements and best use allocation of water Environmental Flows Project. This was part of a State-wide through established water markets196. The SEPP (Groundwaters project initiated through the Stressed Rivers Program. The aim of Victoria) 1997 strengthens this approach by providing a was to develop a scientifically rigorous method for statutory framework to protect Victoria’s groundwater. It sets determining the environmental flow requirements of flow- out environmental indicators, objectives and an attainment stressed rivers in Victoria. Although there remains a substantial program (RMAT 49). gap between the environmental flow requirements and the environmental water provisions in The Glenelg River, the study Both groundwater and surface water have become so important provides a good framework for prioritising flow releases with to the regional economy that new management regimes are available water. being introduced to ensure long-term sustainability. Southern Rural Water and Wimmera Mallee Water manage and control It also will provide a sound scientific basis for entering into the taking and use of water for irrigation and other purposes future negotiations for water allocation. The outcomes of the from rivers and groundwater aquifers. project have been adopted by the Inter-catchment Advisory Group and utilised in determining allocations of water Victoria’s water allocation framework consists of a hierarchy between The Glenelg and Wimmera catchments for the 2002- of legal entitlements to water. Within this framework are 2003 flow season. The study provides direction for future management arrangements for both regulated and activities to be undertaken by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, unregulated waterways and for groundwater. Regulated particularly with respect to research. Future research will aim systems are those where the flow of the stream is regulated to address knowledge gaps and measure system response to through the operation of large dams or weirs. Under the flow releases.

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For unregulated systems where licenses are issued to private The intent of an SMP is to manage water allocations in relation diverters who pump directly from rivers or streams and for to private diversions. Other catchment management issues, farm dams used for irrigation and commercial use, such as riparian vegetation, river frontage management, trout management arrangements are described in a Streamflow stocking, salinity and nutrient management, are not the focus Management Plan (SMP). SMPs provide the operational rules of the SMP. However, there is scope within the planning for water sharing among stakeholders under varying stream framework for these issues to be flagged for consideration by flow conditions, particularly during low flows. SMPs also other agencies. provide the environmental flow regime required to maintain an ecologically healthy regime and protect the environmental The Glenelg Hopkins CMA is responsible for prioritising assets. In some instances, the level of existing diversions, catchments for SMP preparation. Rural Water Authorities particularly in summer, may not enable the environmental (RWAs) have delegated responsibility from the Minister for flow requirements to be met immediately. However, there is a Agriculture and Resources to license the extraction of water requirement that the environmental flow regime will be from rivers and streams as set out in Part 4, Division 2 of the improved over the planning period with the aim of ultimately Water Act 1989. Within this delegation, Southern Rural Water providing the agreed environmental flow. SMPs may be and Wimmera Mallee Water have the responsibility to undertaken for a catchment or a group of catchments up to a progressively develop Streamflow Management Plans in river basin in size. Under the Water Act 1989, SMPs also may priority rivers and streams in the Glenelg Hopkins region. be established for regulated waterways (RMAT 50, RMAT 51) A SMP for the Glenelg River and its tributaries is scheduled. However, the timeline for its preparation is dependent on progress of other higher priority SMPs. “The recognition that water is finite and South West Victoria is underlain by a complex system of valuable aids the identification of groundwater aquifers ranging in depth and quality. Areas regional opportunities to improve the underlain by useable groundwater, where some development efficient use of water resources.” of the groundwater has occurred or is likely to occur, are defined as Groundwater Management Areas (GMAs). These represent a significant resource that has been utilised to varying extents. However, there have been growing concerns Detailed policy principles and management arrangements for that some aquifers are over-utilised and that underground the development of SMPs are outlined in the Stream-flow water resources are becoming unsustainable. This has led to Management Plan Framework (NRE, 2002). However, generally the establishment of a major State-wide program of regulation, SMPs address the following key areas: moratorium and investigation. •Immediate negotiated environmental flow provisions •Flow-sharing rules for a range of climatic conditions The first stage of this program saw the quantification of both •Trading rules the sustainable yield (the average annual volume of • Provisions to improve the environmental flow regime groundwater that it is currently believed can be extracted over time, where necessary to meet the environmental without long-term depletion of the aquifer) and volume of flow requirements water allocated for each GMA across the State. This information was used to set Permissible Annual Volumes (PAVs) • Rules covering the granting of any new licenses for sustainable water extraction from these areas. • Roles and responsibilities The second stage of the program is triggered when water • Cost-sharing allocations reach 70% of the PAV. This involves the 198 • Provisions for monitoring, compliance and plan review . establishment of a Groundwater Supply Protection Area (GSPA), increased monitoring and development of a The Victorian Government’s Farm Dams legislation passed in Groundwater Management Plan (GMP). On determination of 2002 provides for take and use from dams off waterways, the PAV for some GMAs in the Glenelg Hopkins region, they registration of existing dams, licensing of potential hazardous were found to well exceed 100%. As such, they were dams, water supply protection areas and permissible annual prioritised for preparation of GMPs (RMAT 53). volumes. Effective regional implementation of this legislation will help guide water allocation processes (RMAT 52).

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GMPs are developed by consultative committees, comprising The recognition that water is finite and valuable aids the landholders, resource management agencies, environmental identification of regional opportunities to improve the management agencies and environmental interest groups. efficient use of water resources. The Water for Growth Provisions for preparing GMPs are outlined in Division 3 of the Initiative encourages the use of wastewater and better use of Water Act 1989. However, generally they: water on farms199 (RMAT 54). Urban water authorities • Establish rules for the allocation of groundwater, including operating in South West Victoria are responsible for domestic, the ability to transfer water between landholders commercial and industrial water supply and tariffs, and wastewater treatment, disposal and re-use. The way these • Establish arrangements for metering and monitoring authorities manage their businesses, deal with customers and • Make provision for more intensive studies into resource plan for the future has the potential to make an enormous availability impact on regional sustainability. The water resources used by • Identify the extent of groundwater usage and provide these authorities include groundwater, water from rivers and opportunities for additional usage where the resource is streams and collected surface water. Wastewater is a available potentially valuable resource in production processing • Provide more certainty to existing users, thereby enabling activities (RMAT 55). Already water authorities are undertaking long-term planning. ground-breaking activities in water re-use and conservation and these initiatives must be supported and encouraged. Within the Glenelg Hopkins region, priority GMAs previously Urban areas have an important role in conserving water where identified as being at risk are Nullawarre, Yangery and Condah. possible while reducing and improving the quality of waste and These aquifers were subsequently declared Water Supply stormwater. Protection Areas (WSPA). Final GMPs have been developed and approved by the Minister for the Nullawarre and Yangery The challenge for the region is to protect the quality of fresh WSPAs and are now being implemented. A GMP for the Condah water resources, restore the health of rivers and wetlands, WSPA is being prepared by Southern Rural Water with a draft manage groundwater, drainage and floodplains in an scheduled for completion in 2003/04. Ongoing monitoring is environmentally appropriate manner, find new uses for being undertaken to determine other aquifers at risk. wastewater and share water equitably. The capacity of the community to understand and contribute to improving water Groundwater aquifers crossing the Victoria/South Australia quality must be built through education, training and border are managed by the Border Groundwater Agreement continual engagement. Waterwatch has been extremely Review Committee. The committee operates under the successful in educating the catchment community and should Groundwater (Border Agreement) Act 1985 and was formed to be continued (RMAT 56). discuss areas of mutual interest in relation to groundwater use and management.

Educating the community about the importance of water quality

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5.3.7 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR WATERWAY HEALTH AND WATER QUALITY

RMAT 42 Achieve statewide surface water quality targets RMAT 49 Protect groundwater assets through facilitating through facilitating regional implementation of regional implementation of SEPP (Groundwaters of SEPP (Waters of Victoria). Victoria). RMAT 43 Achieve river health resource condition targets RMAT 50 Provide for equitable water sharing by developing through implementing key actions from the and implementing Streamflow Management Plans Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy. for priority streams. RMAT 44 Achieve nutrient level resource condition targets RMAT 51 Investigate alternative management regimes for through implementing key actions from the streams not suitable for SMP development. Glenelg Hopkins CMA Nutrient Management Plan. RMAT 52 Provide for equitable water sharing by facilitating RMAT 45 Achieve nutrient level resource condition targets regional implementation of the Farm Dams Act. through implementing Urban Stormwater Plans. RMAT 53 Protect threatened groundwater assets by RMAT 46 Research and develop efficient retention systems, developing Groundwater Management Plans for efficient reuse systems and alternative uses and priority aquifers of most concern. markets for dairy effluent to help meet nutrient RMAT 54 Increase water use efficiency by implementing level resource condition targets. Water for Growth Initiative. RMAT 47 Improve regional drainage outcomes through RMAT 55 Continue investigation and implementation of implementing key actions from the Glenelg wastewater re-use options. Hopkins CMA Rural Drainage Strategy. RMAT 56 Build community capacity by continuing regional RMAT 48 Improve floodplain outcomes through implementation and development of the implementing key actions from the Glenelg Waterwatch program. Hopkins CMA Regional Floodplain Management Strategy.

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5.4 SOIL DECLINE AND SALINITY

5.4.1 RATIONALE

Healthy soil is an essential asset for major industries operating in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment, including horticulture, dairy and livestock. Soils within the region have been recognised for their very high potential productivity with appropriate management. Agricultural production often impacts on the quality of land and water resources. This impact is often witnessed in changes to soil properties and soil biophysical function. Most current regional production systems leak water, carbon and nutrients and, therefore, their long-term sustainability is questionable200. Intensive agricultural production also OBJECTIVE can lead to the loss of soil organic matter, resulting in soil structure breakdown and Maintain healthy and stable increased erosion. Compaction of soils by stock, farm machinery and intensive cultivation soils by addressing threatening also threatens soil health. Soil acidification and sodicity are emerging issues in parts of the processes, such as erosion, catchment. Salinity, erosion and soil degradation were considered by the catchment acidification and salinisation. community to be the greatest threats to agricultural land201. ASPIRATIONAL TARGET 4 5.4.2 SOIL DECLINE An improvement in soil health as measured by key indicators While western Victoria is recognised as having some of the most fertile soils in Australia, by 2050. more than 80% of regional soils have chemical or physical limitations affecting agricultural management for sustainable productivity and maximum recharge control202. Nutrient deficiency, acid topsoils, shallow soil profiles and poor soil structure are some of these limitations203. A major project undertaken by the Centre for Land Protection funded under the Natural Heritage Trust provides a detailed land resource assessment of the Glenelg Hopkins region in terms of soil data sets, land hazard information and land capability information. The land degradation analysis indicates there are substantial areas at risk from land and water degradation (RMAT 57).

Combating soil erosion has been a major focus of onground works for many years. Poor management practices in the past, extensive clearing and rabbit infestation have left a lasting legacy that requires intensive remediation. Agricultural landforms in the Glenelg and Casterton land systems and the Dundas and Merino Tablelands are particularly susceptible to erosion. The long-term outcomes of continued erosion in these areas can be seen in the massive sediment deposits in the Glenelg and Wannon Rivers and continued soil conservation works are required to ensure no further sediment enters these streams204 “Soils within the region have been (RMAT 58). There is a long history of fertiliser and agro-chemical use in the region. As a result, there may be significant amounts recognised for their very high of organic, inorganic and pollutants moving across the potential productivity with appropriate 205 landscape and into the air and water . The impact of these management.” practices on soil and catchment health needs to be more fully explored, documented and communicated (RMAT 59).

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Soil acidification poses a major threat to the profitability of Soil sodicity affects nearly a third of all agricultural soils in agriculture and the long-term sustainability of the catchment. Australia, causing poor water infiltration, surface crusting, Some agricultural practices greatly accelerate the rate of erosion and waterlogging. Run-off from sodic soils is a major acidification of all soil types206. Acidification affects the cause of turbidity in waterways. Sodic soils on sloping land are chemical and biological balance of the soil, causing toxicities of prone to water erosion, meaning important fertile topsoil can certain elements and deficiencies of others. Soils that are be lost. In other situations with sodic subsoil on sloping land, allowed to become strongly acidic are subject to losses in subsurface water flows will create tunnels, leaving cavities terrestrial biodiversity. Acidification leads to reduced farm that eventually collapse to form gullies. Sodic soils can be productivity, loss of ability to grow crops of higher economic treated through the replacement of sodium with calcium and value, reduced farm income and associated flow-on effects and the leaching of sodium from the soil. Calcium-containing off-site impacts. The water-using capacity of agricultural substances like gypsum (calcium chloride) can be applied to the systems is correspondingly decreased with significant affected soil. Such additives may not always solve the problem implications for the control of salinity207. The Acid Soil Strategy in the long term. Very large quantities of gypsum may be for Victoria indicates that the Glenelg Hopkins catchment has needed if the additions are to have anything more than a the highest risk rating. Acidification is identified as an insidious short-term effect. Researchers are advocating a whole-farm problem not obvious in the landscape. Therefore, acidity is approach to the management of sodic and other problem most effectively tackled before it is apparent, as by the time soils209. Greater understanding of the options within the region plant decline is obvious the chances of complete soil will be required to find effective and sustainable ways to restoration are hampered. manage sodic soils (RMAT 62)

The strategy highlights that within individual catchments there The issue of Coastal Acid Sulphate Soils (CASS) identified in the is the need to undertake focused educational campaigns to catchment description is being addressed. The Victorian increase the awareness of landholders and the public about the Coastal Council has contracted Agriculture Victoria to causes of soil acidification, the extent of the problem and the investigate the extent of coastal acid sulphate soils. The environmental impacts (RMAT 60). Within catchments there is outcomes of the project are a map and report determining the the need to identify priority areas and develop industry- extent of potential acid sulphate soils along the coast. This specific best practice guidelines to control the current rate of information will be provided to local government to inform acidification. The strategy calls for research and development planning decisions. Disturbance of CASS can lead to significant programs to investigate alternative strategies for managing environmental, economic and social impacts. As such, every acidification processes. Regional research providers have a effort should be made to avoid land-use practices that directly major role to play in meeting this challenge (RMAT 61). or indirectly result in disturbance of such soils. There is a need to ensure relevant environmental significance overlays are Low levels of organic matter and poor soil biology can developed within local councils, that there is a finer, more contribute to structural deterioration in cultivated soils detailed regional assessment of the extent of CASS and that a leading to an accumulation of sodium. Sodium occurs strategy is developed to manage the problem and promote naturally in soils and is dependent on several factors, such as awareness (RMAT 63). the parent material, the conditions under which the soil formed, the drainage of the soil, and the predominant weather conditions. Sodic soils are similar to saline soils except that much of the chlorine has been washed away. As a result, these clay particles lose their tendency to stick together when wet - leading to unstable soils, which may erode or become impermeable to both water and roots208.

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5.4.3 SALINITY 5.4.4 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR SOILS AND SALINITY Salinity has long been recognised as an important issue in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment. The Australian Dryland Salinity RMAT 57 Build regional capacity to manage soil issues Assessment (2000) indicates the region is a high hazard risk area through heightening awareness and increasing use for dryland salinity. The Glenelg Hopkins Salinity Plan (2002) of land degradation analysis. indicates salinity currently costs the region more than RMAT 58 Meet soil and salinity aspirational targets through $44 million annually, with costs likely to increase as the problem continuing to identify and manage soil erosion expands. Salinity already affects more than 27,000ha, impacting sites. heavily on agricultural production and environmental, heritage RMAT 59 Investigate the long-term impacts of agricultural and infrastructure assets. These impacts are predicted to industries on soil, chemical, physical and biological increase substantially over the next 30 years. The Salinity Plan fertility. identifies priority sub-catchments for action. These sub- RMAT 60 Increase catchment community knowledge of soil catchments were determined on the basis of salinity hazard, acidification issues. distribution of assets and opportunities for intervention. RMAT 61 Undertake research into regional soil acidification The aspirational target set for the Salinity Plan is: that surface remediation measures. and groundwater salinity levels do not impact on key regional RMAT 62 Undertake investigation into regional soil sodicity assets. Interim surface water salinity targets for 2012 at key issues. catchment points are: RMAT 63 Continue identification of Regional Coastal Acid Hopkins River at Wickliffe <15,000EC 90% of the time Sulphate Soils and implement management Hopkins River at Hopkins Falls <7,500 EC 90% of the time program. Glenelg River at Sandford <3,300 EC 90% of the time RMAT 64 Meet salinity resource condition targets through Wannon River at Henty <5,840 EC 90% of the time implementing key actions from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Salinity Plan. Achievement of these resource condition targets would signify RMAT 65 Contribute to long term meeting of soil and salinity that management actions were impacting on the rising salinity aspirational targets through development of a trend across the catchment. The Salinity Plan highlights regional Soils Action Plan. Build community opportunities for multiple benefits to other land, water and capacity by continuing regional implementation vegetation programs. The principles for salinity management and development of the Waterwatch program. are to: 1) recognise and understand that saline ecosystems are a natural feature of the region; 2) minimise the risk of salinity to assets; 3) address salinity in an integrated catchment management framework; 4) ensure salinity management provides social, economic and environmental benefits to the region; 5) ensure flexibility and innovation through a process of continual improvement (RMAT 64).

Salinity represents only one part of a much larger challenge to improve and maintain soils. There is a clear need to develop a comprehensive Soils Action Plan that explicitly sets out the contribution of the soils base to ecosystems of the catchment and the regional economy, links soil management to increased and sustainable production, identifies risks to soil assets, specifies the properties of soils that constrain or are conducive to resource development at local and catchment scales, defines Salinity. Photo: Mark Hardy best management soil practices and how these contribute to ecosystem health and initiates an appropriate framework of management and action (RMAT 65).

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5.5 PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

5.5.1 RATIONALE

Pest plants and animals pose some of the most significant threats to regional assets. Appropriate pest management actions will dramatically increase the chance of successful outcomes across a variety of natural resource programs. Pest plant and animal infestations severely impact on regional biodiversity. Weeds are estimated to cost Victorian agriculture more than $360 million a year and can significantly lower land values210. Regionally, the annual economic impact of rabbits alone is estimated at more than $38 million211. The first Glenelg Hopkins CMA RCS identified pest plants and animals OBJECTIVE as the highest priority Landcare issue212. Research commissioned in support of the revised Control and reduce pest plant RCS found that weeds and pest animals were perceived to be the greatest threat to the and animal infestations and region behind salinity213. prevent the establishment of new pest species. 5.5.2 THE GOAL OF PEST PLANT AND ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

ASPIRATIONAL TARGET 5 Pest plant and animal management is not an end in itself, but the means to ends, such as increased productivity and biodiversity protection. The widespread infiltration of pests By 2050, there will be a net means investment must be targeted where the greatest potential threats to economic, decline in impacts of pest environmental and social assets occur. The Catchment and Land Protection Act provides plant and animal infestation the legislative basis for pest control in the State. Legislation confers responsibility on all on private and public land and private and public landholders to control and prevent the spread of noxious weeds and in aquatic systems as established pests. The legislation authorises the inspection of properties for noxious weeds measured by key indicators. and provides controls on the movement of machinery and materials and the sale of livestock and farm produce that may contain seeds of noxious weeds. It also provides for restrictions on the sale of noxious weeds and their seeds214 (RMAT 66).

Despite substantial management activity by private and public landholders in the past, the threat posed by weeds continues. There is a growing realisation that weed infestation is symptomatic of a degraded resource base and the result of practices such as overgrazing and disturbance of native vegetation. Treating symptoms through chemical application will achieve short-term results, but requires repeated and costly application. Treatment of the cause by rehabilitating the resource through reduced grazing pressure, resowing pastures and replanting trees in conjunction with control measures will provide a more integrated and comprehensive approach likely to improve results215 (RMAT 67).

5.5.3 NATIONAL, STATE AND REGIONAL ACTION PLANS

The national response to the threat of weeds is encapsulated in the National Weeds Strategy and the National Weeds Program, in particular management plans for Weeds of National Significance216. The State response will be through the Victorian Pest Management Strategy - A Framework for Action and management strategies developed under the framework, as well as other specific State-wide strategies.217 (RMAT 68). The regional response to weed problems is detailed in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan, which seeks to reflect national approaches and State directions and implement corresponding regional outcomes. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan builds on the successful components of existing pest plant arrangements within the catchment to: 1) inform all stakeholders in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment about the economic, social and environmental impact of weeds and how to minimise this impact; 2) prevent the development and spread of new weed problems; 3) ensure early detection of, and rapid response to, new weed problems; 4) achieve a significant reduction in the impact of existing weed infestations; 5) establish working partnerships to ensure cost-effective weed management; 6) promote the evaluation of weed management in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment (RMAT 69). 88 6389 GHCMA Strategy.qxd 5/9/03 4:23 PM Page 89

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Regional DPI/DSE staff support the implementation of the Effective pest plant and animal control results in multiple Weed Action Plan by undertaking behavioral change activities beneficial outcomes and is required to meet other objectives with the community (extension, education and enforcement), outlined in this strategy. Successful predator control in developing codes of practice with industry and, through the priority areas of biodiversity assets will contribute much to the Good Neighbor Program, minimising the impacts of pests that goal of preserving threatened species (RMAT 75). Rabbits have originated on public land and spread onto adjacent threaten entire landscape values and have been identified as private land. Parks Victoria has the key responsibility for major contributors to soil erosion, grazing threats to management of environmental pests within the parks and endangered orchids and grassland species, competing for reserves network. Coordinated pest management across land habitat with endangered species such as the Eastern Barred tenures is a key feature of the Victorian Pest Management Bandicoot, contributors to the decline in vegetation Strategy. surrounding wetlands, artificially lifting the potential carrying capacity of land systems for predators, such as foxes, and Landcare groups across the region have been active in being highly destructive of commercial and environmental tree undertaking pest plant and animal control actions. Community- planting programs. The regional response to rabbit problems is based groups such as the Victorian Serrated Tussock Working contained in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Rabbit Action Plan, Party, South West Ragwort Reference Group and Ballarat which is based on the strategic principles that: Region Gorse Taskforce have implemented successful programs 1) rabbit control is not an end in itself, but a foundation for with strong community credibility and ensuing co-ordination of achieving other outcomes in natural resource management; resources218 (RMAT 70). Quality assurance programs being 2) a community-based compliance program requires a broad implemented by the stockfeed industry aim to restrict the spectrum of approaches ranging from extension through to spread of new weed threats (RMAT 71). enforcement;

The issue of risks posed by exotic marine organisms to coastal 3) group control schemes are more cost-effective than waters is covered in the Victorian Coastal Strategy (2002), isolated individual approaches; which highlights the need to: 4) destroying rabbit warrens is the key leverage in managing 1) implement an integrated national ballast water system; rabbits; 2) develop effective techniques to manage other pathways of 5) resources must be allocated for performance monitoring; marine pest introduction; 6) support for community action should be in line with 3) implement the interim Victorian Protocol for Managing government investment principles219. Exotic Marine Organism Incursions; The overall objective of the Rabbit Action Plan is to increase 4) implement an industry and community extension program the area under long-term rabbit control by approximately that will promote the uptake of practices to reduce the risk 40,000ha (27%) over the next five years. Regional DPI/DSE staff of marine pests being introduced and spread (RMAT 72). support the implementation of the Rabbit Action Plan by undertaking behavioral change activities with the community Aquatic environments suffer heavily from the impacts of pest (extension, education and enforcement) and, through the plants and animals. Willows and Blackberries, for example, Good Neighbor Program, minimising the impacts of pests that have a significant impact on instream health, as do escaped have originated on public land and spread onto adjacent aquarium plants such as Canadian Pondweed (RMAT 73). private land (RMAT 76). European Carp have the potential to adversely impact on the Glenelg and Hopkins Rivers, particularly the estuaries. Their As a region, the challenge is to continue to develop effective feeding behavior will adversely alter the preferred habitat of partnerships across government agencies, industries, fresh water fish species, such as the Dwarf Galaxias, Ewen’s community groups and landholders. Together these groups can Pygmy Perch and Yarra Pygmy Perch, as well as the support co-ordinated action, implement and refine existing recruitment of important estuarine species like Black Bream strategies and develop other pest plant and animal strategies and Estuary Perch. They also mobilise nutrients, which could as required, use newly developed decision support systems to lead to increased numbers, duration and severity of algal review pest priorities, continue to develop rapid response blooms. As such, an integrated regional program of European programs to meet new infestation threats and continue Carp investigation and control must be implemented education, extension and enforcement activities (RMAT 77, (RMAT 74). Aquatic pest plants and animals have been RMAT 78). Ongoing research into new control methods and the recognised in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy effectiveness of existing approaches and strategies is vital as threatening processes and priority sub-catchments for (RMAT 79). action identified.

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5.5.4 MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

RMAT 66 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants and RMAT 73 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants through animals through facilitating regional facilitating development of regional Aquatic Pest implementation of the CALP Act. Plant Strategy. RMAT 67 Build community capacity through increasing RMAT 74 Implement regional European Carp investigation community awareness of the need to treat causes and control program. rather than symptoms of pest plant infestations. RMAT 75 Meet aspirational targets for pest animals through RMAT 68 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants facilitating development and implementation of and animals through facilitating regional predator control measures. implementation of Commonwealth and State pest RMAT 76 Meet rabbit resource condition targets through management programs. implementing the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Rabbit RMAT 69 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants through Action Plan. facilitating implementation of key actions from the RMAT 77 Investigate gaps in pest plant and animal Glenelg Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan. management strategic planning. RMAT 70 Build community capacity through supporting RMAT 78 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants and community-based weed management activities. animals through reviewing and updating existing RMAT 71 Support stock feed industry quality assurance pest plant and animal strategies. programs. RMAT 79 Work closely with and support research providers RMAT 72 Facilitate regional implementation of the Victorian to develop new control measures. Coastal Strategy related to exotic marine organisms.

Pest plant - Pattersons Curse

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5.6 COASTAL AREAS

5.6.1 RATIONALE

The coastal area of the Glenelg Hopkins catchment contributes significantly to the economic, cultural, environmental and recreational life of local, regional and state communities. It contains some of Australia’s most beautiful, spectacular and pristine environments that represent a unique blend of values important to residents and visitors. In addition to the rich coastal biodiversity, the coastal zone hosts regionally significant ports, industry and many sites of Aboriginal and European history. Coastal areas are experiencing unprecedented increases in population and tourism activity. But while many OBJECTIVE people consider coastal areas a valuable environmental asset, pollution, erosion and over- Protection and enhancement of development are perceived by the community to be major threats to the coastal the coastal areas of the environment220. catchment while providing opportunities for sustainable Impacts of management activities in the catchment directly and indirectly affect the use and development along the coastal zone. Nutrient and sediment enrichment of waterways, chemical pollution and coast. reduced water flows have major impacts on the health of the coastal environment. Similar to other parts of the catchment, the coast is threatened by loss of biodiversity, pest plant ASPIRATIONAL TARGET 6 and animal invasion and erosion. In stark contrast to other catchment areas, the increase in population growth and associated development along the coastal strip is having a As measured through key significant impact on the health of the environment. indicators, the coastal areas of the catchment in 2050 will Most of the coast is in public ownership, with specific areas under delegated community retain their unique flora and management and a limited amount in private ownership. A proportion of the coastline is fauna and places of natural protected as parks and reserves and managed by Parks Victoria. Parks Victoria is therefore beauty while supporting a a key stakeholder in urban and industrial development in coastal areas and in the range of diverse and management of coastal and estuarine environments. The Victorian Coastal Strategy sustainable industries. (2002), developed in accordance with the Coastal Management Act (1995), establishes the overall framework for planning and management of the coast. The strategy is the key document, which provides a shared vision to guide all decision-making by the community and governments affecting the coast. The strategy establishes principles to underpin decision-making to protect the broad public interest in the long term. Recognising there are many competing pressures for use and great natural and cultural diversity, the strategy describes a framework for Ecologically Sustainable Development. The strategy relates to and encourages: an integrated approach to coastal and catchment management; protecting and rehabilitating the coastal environment and maintaining biodiversity; recognising the established and valued community uses of the coast; recognising the economic value and contribution of the coast; respect for, and protection of, cultural issues; and improving knowledge and awareness221 (RMAT 80).

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5.6.2 SOUTH WEST VICTORIA REGIONAL COASTAL ACTION PLAN AND ESTUARIES COASTAL ACTION PLAN

The South West Victoria Regional Coastal Action Plan (2002) prepared by the Western Coastal Board provides the framework to link the various Federal, State, regional and local planning policies and strategies dealing with a range of coastal planning and management issues. The South West Victoria Regional Coastal Action Plan (SWCAP) complements the Victorian Coastal Strategy as well as the completed Coastal Action Plans for the City of Warrnambool and Moyne and Glenelg Shires (RMAT 81). The SWCAP aims to improve the management of South West Victoria’s coastal region and recognises that tackling coastal issues will depend on the co-operation and partnership of government and the regional community and the provision of adequate information to agencies and the community. Research and environmental monitoring will be vital in this process. The SWCAP identifies the need to recognise the significant environmental, social and economic values associated with the coastal and marine environments of South West Victoria. It also identifies strategic issues and key outcomes for the successful protection and enhancement of coastal areas while providing opportunities for sustainable use and development. The desired outcomes are: • Government and the community working together in an informed partnership to integrate the planning and management of the coastal areas • Significant regional, environmental, social and economic values associated with coastal environments protected and enhanced • Effective planning policies and provision in place through existing mechanisms which effectively control activities damaging to coastal habitats • The coastal and marine environment protected, improved and sustained through the application of co-ordinated and integrated decision-making, assisted through consistent planning principles and policies • Coastal and marine environments better planned and managed through improved and closer public participation and better understanding of the basis for management decisions •A range of coastal access opportunities that reflect community recreational and tourism needs, land management objectives and ESD principles • Better protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage sites through increased awareness, consultation, co-operation and negotiation with local Aboriginal communities.

Nelson Coast. Photo: David Owens

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To help minimise the risk of inappropriate development, the 5.6.3 MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR SWCAP seeks to limit urban development to within township COASTAL AREAS boundaries to ensure urban developments do not occur within erosion-prone areas, significant wetlands, riparian zones and RMAT 80 Meet aspirational target for coastal areas through other areas identified as having significant economic, cultural facilitating regional implementation of the or environmental value. The objective is to ensure that any Victorian Coastal Strategy. future built form is sensitively located, ecologically sound and RMAT 81 Build and sustain partnerships and a cooperative respects visually sensitive landscapes so that loss of habitat, approach to encourage the implementation, loss of amenity and potential erosion is minimised (RMAT 82). evaluation and review the Warrnambool, Moyne Coastal settlements need to be defined to consider and Glenelg Coastal Action Plans. Coordinate and development associated with townships as well as stand-alone focus resources to support the implementation of development outside of townships. Recent examples of this actions identified in these plans. type of development include the Western Underground Gas RMAT 82 Meet aspirational target for coastal areas through Storage Facility at Waare, aquaculture farms at Port Fairy and implementing, evaluating and reviewing the South Narrawong, windfarms at Codrington and proposed windfarms West Victoria Regional Coastal Action Plan. for other coastal areas, including Yambuk, Portland and RMAT 83 Meet aspirational target for coastal areas through Nirranda. developing and implementing individual Estuary Management Plans in accordance with the South Another key issue outlined in the SWCAP is management of West Estuaries Coastal Action Plan. estuaries. Estuaries are critical habitats in the catchment. Estuarine environments have inestimable intrinsic value for RMAT 84 Facilitate ongoing regional implementation and their biological diversity and are valuable resources for project development in line with the Coast Action commercial, recreational and tourism opportunities. Past Coastcare program. management practices have degraded this asset, with inappropriate river mouth openings a prime example. Estuaries have received a low level of recognition in the past and a corresponding lack of management. The South West Estuaries Coastal Action Plan has been developed in response to this need and highlights the importance of introducing co-ordinated management for estuaries within the region and improved management of stormwater to reduce degrading impacts. The South West Estuaries Coastal Action Plan brings together a regional planning framework and structure, together with a suite of management strategy options that can generally be: 1) applied to restore and protect the environmental health of the estuaries of the South West coast of Victoria; 2) used as best practice guidelines in the development of individual estuary management plans (RMAT 83).

The Coast Action and Coastcare program funded by State and Federal Governments encourages community involvement in the protection, management and rehabilitation of coastal and marine environments. Coastcare projects help protect and rehabilitate dunes, estuaries and wetlands, rehabilitate coastal and marine habitats, remove threats to coastal environments, monitor coastal health, develop and implement coastal management plans and undertake education and training activities that raise community awareness, knowledge and skills. There is a significant need to develop such projects along the coast in the Glenelg Hopkins region (RMAT 84).

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6.0 INTEGRATION TOOLS

Section 6 of the RCS describes a series of tools capable of creating lasting change and achieving multiple benefit outcomes across the challenge areas. The chosen tools are: 1. Strategic Planning 2. Regional Partnerships 3. Onground Works 4. Community Engagement and Capacity Building

As part of the adaptive management framework, outcomes will be reported and program adjustments made through a process of 5) Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting. Table 12 summarises the matters addressed in6 each of the integration tool areas.

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6.0 INTEGRATION TOOLS

6.1 STRATEGIC PLANNING

6.1.1 RATIONALE

Strategic planning in natural resource management across the Glenelg Hopkins region is a core function of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE. Beside preparing a RCS, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA also constructs associated action plans across a range of issues and scales. Co-ordinated strategic planning results in effective resource distribution and less duplication of effort. Planning must strive to reflect current community values and ensure land is used appropriately. OBJECTIVE 6.1.2 INTEGRATED STRATEGIC PLANNING ACROSS GEOGRAPHIC SCALES To undertake, co-ordinate and support strategic planning for Strategic planning activities of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA fit within a broader planning effective natural resource hierarchy that extends from the national to the paddock scale. Figure 20 gives a management across the region representation of the planning hierarchy. at a variety of scales.

Table 12 ~ Matters Addressed in Integration Tool Areas

Matters Addressed Strategic Planning • Integrated planning across geographic scales. • Role of local government and development of planning overlays. • Information resources for planning. • Regional research priorities. • Information technology requirements. Regional Partnerships • Partnerships established. • Partnership enhancement opportunities: - Landcare - Local government - Industry - Indigenous communities - Educational organisations. Integration Tool Onground Works • Priority works areas. •Volunteer groups. • Landholders. • Development of labour force. 6 Community Engagement • Requirements of engagement. and Capacity Building • Training. • Information provision. • Empowerment. • Communications Plan. Monitoring, Evaluation • Adaptive management requirements. and Reporting • Monitoring framework adopted. • Evaluation processes. • Reporting requirements.

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Successful integrated regional planning requires close have been developed in areas such as nutrient management. collaboration and effective structures and partnerships Within the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, DPI/DSE, local government between planning agencies, stakeholders and the community. and water authorities, there is a core knowledge of regional The Glenelg Hopkins CMA seeks to work closely with Federal issues, information and planning expertise accessible to other Government agencies, such as Agriculture Fisheries Forestry groups. While planning at all scales is important, planning at Australia and Environment Australia, and State Government smaller geographic scales - such as the local government, river agencies, such as DPI/DSE, the Department of Infrastructure, basin, sub-catchment, Landcare group and farm level - through EPA and the Department of State and Regional Development the EMS approach offers a powerful tool to integrate actions, (RMAT 85). The relationship between the Glenelg Hopkins CMA involve local communities and provide a co-ordinated works and DPI/DSE is of fundamental importance to the delivery of plan. Therefore, this planning must be supported (RMAT 87). As regional services and is managed through the regional services already noted in this strategy, there is an urgent need to agreement and the regional management plan (RMAT 86). develop a comprehensive asset register to support strategic planning across the region and instigate methods to determine The Glenelg Hopkins CMA helps integrate and operationalise the ‘Triple Bottom Line’ value of assets (RMAT 88). Noted in Federal and State Government plans and objectives across the Section 4 is the need to develop resource condition targets and region on a variety of scales. This function is accomplished not associated indicators to help guide future planning and only through co-ordinated strategic planning, but developing measure the success of outcomes (RMAT 89). effective regional partnerships and structures, facilitating onground works and engaging with the community. In the five years since the initial RCS, a number of associated action plans

Figure 20 ~ Strategic Planning Hierarchy

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6.1.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENT 6.1.4 INFORMATION RESOURCES FOR PLANNING

Integrating the RCS and associated action plans with the Successful strategic regional planning requires a knowledge planning schemes of local government will lead to improved base and information sharing. Knowledge-based decisions and natural resource management and land-use planning. A key strategies result in better outcomes and are important for objective of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 is to making investment decisions and identifying risks and costs225. provide for the protection of natural and man-made resources Within the region, there exists significant research capacity and the maintenance of ecological processes and genetic with links to world-wide research networks. The Pastoral and diversity222. Municipal Strategic Statements must incorporate Veterinary Institute in Hamilton, Regional DPI/DSE offices and a statement regarding the regional context, the RCS and the universities, such as Deakin, contain significant research role of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA as a planning referral body resources. Beyond the immediate region, Co-operative for floodplain and works on waterways matters223 (RMAT 90). Research Centres, DPI/DSE, CSIRO and Land and Water While the RCS is a key reference document, specific action Australia are examples of large research organisations with plans nested under this document must be considered. Local expertise invaluable in natural resource management decision- council planning schemes offer a way of controlling new making. Much scientific knowledge applicable to catchment development and future land-use change. Working to ensure management remains unused as it is not in a suitable form for that natural resource management issues are considered when end users. As such, many organisations are seeking to develop developments are proposed is a key part of the integration technology transfer plans, particularly at the regional level. To framework. This process can be helped through the build knowledge within the catchment, links must be built development of appropriate planning overlays related to within and between research providers, planners and the action plans and incorporating industry codes of practice community. Research activities should reflect and relate to within planning schemes. Overlays shown on planning schemes identifiable regional knowledge needs and priorities. This mean the provisions of the overlay apply in addition to the requires organisations across the region clearly articulating relevant zoning. Victorian Planning provisions include their information needs to research managers. Within the key Environmental Significance, Vegetation Protection, Significant challenge areas, several pressing research needs have been Landscape, Erosion Management, Salinity Management, identified. The Research and Development Compendium Floodway and Land Subject to Inundation overlays224. Planning project funded by part of the NAP foundation funding has must involve far more than permit approval and needs to move collated regional research and investigation carried out in beyond its traditional urban focus. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA South West Victoria over the past 15 years and, through a and DPI/DSE have significant expertise and resources to help consultation process, identified future research directions. councils develop these planning devices (RMAT 91). Many The broad research directions identified are presented in councils across Australia and the world are developing Appendix 4 (RMAT 93). environmental strategies. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE strongly support these strategies and offer any councils within the region support to undertake such activities (RMAT 92). Effective regional input into planning schemes and other local government policy areas requires the development of effective partnerships.

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To meet its wider regional strategic planning role, the Glenelg 6.1.5 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR Hopkins CMA requires effective corporate governance. The STRATEGIC PLANNING expenditure of significant amounts of public funds places a heavy onus on the organisation to implement best management RMAT 85 Work closely with State and Federal organisations practice accounting, reporting and evaluation processes to implement relevant plans and strategies. (RMAT 94). The Glenelg Hopkins CMA needs to build its own - RMAT 86 Continue development of regional services and the region’s - capacity to undertake scenario planning, agreement between the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and catchment modeling and project planning. Achievements in DPI/DSE. this area will depend on building partnerships between groups, RMAT 87 Raise awareness among organisations and the such as DPI/DSE and universities, with existing expertise. community of planning support capacities. Geographic Information Systems are a powerful tool, with RMAT 88 Develop a comprehensive asset register. Determine many regional stakeholders now implementing their use. GIS ‘Triple Bottom Line’ value of assets on a sub- data needs to be shared between organisations and with catchment basis, particularly the value of landholders to improve cost-effective planning processes. ecosystem services, and relay these to the Relevant State and Federal protocols regarding data community. custodianship, management and exchange must be observed RMAT 89 Develop regional resource condition targets and (RMAT 95). Owing to the growing importance of information appropriate indicators. management within the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and its wider regional role, it is recommended that an information RMAT 90 Meet aspirational targets through integrating the management strategy examining hardware, data management RCS and Action Plans with Municipal Strategic and manipulation and policies for data collection and sharing Statements. be developed (RMAT 96). RMAT 91 Meet aspirational targets through supporting councils to develop appropriate planning overlays. RMAT 92 Meet aspirational targets through supporting councils to develop and implement environmental strategies. RMAT 93 Raise awareness of, and undertake research into, identified research priorities. RMAT 94 Implement best practice accounting, reporting and evaluation processes. RMAT 95 Build regional capacity to undertake scenario planning, catchment modeling and project planning. RMAT 96 Develop a Glenelg Hopkins CMA Information Management Strategy.

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6.0 INTEGRATION TOOLS

6.2 REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

6.2.1 RATIONALE

The effective management of natural resources involves creating and managing effective working partnerships within and between local, State and Federal Governments, local communities, including indigenous communities, community groups and landholders. Responsibility for natural resource management is divided among these groups and it is only through collaboration that effective outcomes will be achieved. A central role of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is to co-ordinate natural resource management. This can be achieved through creating and maintaining effective, flexible and responsive regional partnerships OBJECTIVE and structures. The first and foremost partnership the Glenelg Hopkins CMA has sought to To create and enhance regional establish has been with the local regional community. This will continue to be a focus of partnerships capable of partnership work and issues relating to this will be explored in the Capacity Building and providing a coherent and Community Engagement Section of the document. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has effective response to the undertaken successful regional partnerships with a range of bodies, such as DPI/DSE challenge of natural resource (governed through the regional services agreement), the EPA and urban and rural water management and sustainability. authorities (RMAT 97). The Glenelg Hopkins CMA actively supports the work of the South West Sustainability Partnership and currently chairs the organisation (RMAT 98). Emerging regional partnerships beyond those currently operating and that will add value to desired natural resource outcomes are listed below.

6.2.2 LANDCARE AND OTHER COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Landcare has grown and evolved to become the largest community-based movement for natural resource management in Victoria. The Landcare movement has raised conservation awareness in rural and urban areas and increased involvement in onground action. Landcare represents a significant source of social capacity for addressing natural resource management and integrating environmental conservation into agricultural production. Landcare is a vital component in engaging communities and will require considerable and effective support. The Second Generation Victorian Landcare Plan highlights that factors such as increasing environmental awareness and the pressure for clean and green production provide the potential for Landcare to obtain additional support and generate commitment from individuals and communities to pursue sustainable systems226.

The RCS identifies natural resource management priorities to which Landcare groups can make an invaluable contribution. There are more than 100 Landcare groups operating in the Glenelg Hopkins region227. The successful nature of the Landcare program can be witnessed in a range of large-scale projects. Building on this existing network and its successes through ongoing support is a core component of the strategy. Landcare groups with access to high quality support are better able to undertake natural resource management activities and group learning. The range of support required by land managers addressing environmental degradation includes improved co-ordination of activities, access to labour and technical support228. The Second Generation Victorian Landcare Plan argues there is scope for greater local government involvement with Landcare. It also argues the State Government needs to better define its role and provide support for the organisation and individual groups through the catchment management framework.

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Partnerships with Landcare groups can be facilitated through Local councils have a strong history in undertaking onground the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Regional Landcare Strategy, which works in a variety of areas. There is strong expertise in highlights the need to: planning, engineering, mapping and onground works within 1) support the Landcare community through a well resourced councils. Through information provision and funding support, support structure with trained and strategically located the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE can help harness these staff; resources for improved natural resource outcomes. Natural 2) strengthen the investment of funds and resources by resource managers in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE stakeholders to assist the regional community overcome must provide councils with information on priority works social, economic and environmental issues; requirements and funding opportunities. The Glenelg Hopkins 3) help people achieve through professional community CMA and DPI/DSE must help councils identify and value natural natural resource facilitators; resource assets and link councils together on cross boundary 4) foster communication, education and awareness through issues, such as river restoration. To fulfil their regional newsletters, awards, technical manuals and facilitator leadership roles, such organisations must work with councils to training; set the direction of natural resource management and identify 5) form partnerships with local organisations to maximise the opportunities for action. use of available resources and develop a more complete Councils have considerable access to community networks approach to achieving a successful result229 (RMAT 99). that can be used to channel information to target audiences. While Landcare is the largest and most established community Similarly, Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE networks can network in the natural resource management field, there is a assist councils to communicate effectively. The role of local need to develop supportive partnerships with a number of government in environmental management has grown emerging groups that can contribute to the preservation significantly. Many councils have, or are in the process of and enhancement of the region’s environment. Other groups developing, environmental strategies and environmental with which partnerships arrangements should be built include health reports. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has significant Coast Action / Coastcare, Friends groups and Field Naturalists expertise and information to provide in these areas and, (RMAT 100). through linking councils together, can avoid duplication of effort and ensure a co-ordinated response. The Glenelg 6.2.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENT Hopkins CMA must develop partnerships with councils if planning schemes and municipal statements are to be aligned Councils and CMAs share responsibility for natural resource with action plans, if onground works and operations are to be management. The legislated powers, resources and networks of undertaken by councils and if information networks are to be councils make them key partners in achieving many of the shared. Partnerships with local councils can be built partly desired outcomes in this strategy. Local councils own and through creating the possibility of secondments for projects or control large parcels of land, are designated managers of joint employment arrangements (RMAT 101). coastal Crown land and are responsible for some roadside vegetation. Local government planning processes offer a way of influencing development. Core Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE objectives in areas such as sustainable agriculture, native vegetation retention, floodplain and drainage management and pest plant and animal control will only be achieved with the active support of local government. Through their rating schemes, councils have a monetary method to reward or penalise certain behaviors.

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6.2.4 INDUSTRY 6.2.6 EDUCATIONAL ORGANISATIONS

Targeting partnership formation with major companies and Strengthening partnerships between natural resource industry groups has the potential to make a tremendous managers and educational organisations is vital to achieving difference to natural resource outcomes. Large companies act the targets set for this strategy. Programs such as Waterwatch as buyers of agricultural produce, sellers of agricultural inputs and Saltwatch have targeted primary and secondary schools. and information providers. As such, major companies and The innovative Watershed 2000 project based around Mortlake industry groups have a range of direct and indirect powers and has involved working closely with schools to achieve influences over the styles of land management and production outcomes. The success of these programs in influencing ‘land processes adopted by producers. They also have significant managers of the future’ - i.e. schoolchildren - highlights the resources at their disposal that, if harnessed, can create need for ongoing partnership development and program change relatively quickly. Industry can identify and create a delivery and expansion within schools. Deakin University and number of financial inducements to reward appropriate the South West College of TAFE jointly provide degrees and environmental behaviors. A growing range of businesses are diplomas in natural resource management and students from recognising and accepting their role in creating a more these courses have helped raise the profile of natural resource sustainable future. The dairy industry is a prime example of the management and increase the understanding of catchment need for a partnership approach. Dairy companies operating in processes. RMIT, Ballarat University and the University of South West Victoria are increasingly recognising the need to Melbourne are active within the region. Educational minimise environmental risk and the market advantages in institutions have expertise in distance learning and curriculum being perceived as clean and green producers. Consequently, development that must be utilised in building broader training there is support for the implementation of more sustainable courses across the catchment. The appointment of a natural practices and whole-farm environmental plans among resource educational facilitator should be considered to suppliers and producers. Support and information on what ensure that relevant materials are delivered across the constitutes best environmental practice and the requirements education spectrum and that high quality partnerships of an auditable environmental management system is required. continue (RMAT 104). They are then in a position to promote the process and audit and reward producers accordingly. Similar opportunities exist in other industries operating in the region. Particular emphasis should be placed on those industries influencing large parcels of land or having the ability to affect the overall health of the catchment. Primarily these are the wool, meat and plantation timber industries (RMAT 102).

6.2.5 INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

As traditional owners, indigenous communities have a central role in land management in the region. Aboriginal communities control significant parcels of land of high environmental, historical and cultural value. There are thousands of sites and places of Aboriginal heritage in the region, and catchment restoration and protection works have the potential to impact heavily on these. Works on waterways, fencing, revegetation programs and pest plant and animal control can directly or indirectly destroy or seriously affect sites of importance. Therefore, it is important that appropriate consultation be undertaken and partnerships formed with the appropriate Aboriginal land management group. There is an urgent need to increase the capacity of Aboriginal groups to be directly involved in natural resource management and for landholders and land managers to understand their legislative responsibility to protect sites of significance through forming partnerships (RMAT 103). Indigenous Dance. Photo: Kevin Carvalho

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6.2.7 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR PARTNERSHIPS

RMAT 97 Meet aspirational targets through continued partnership development and refinement with DPI/DSE, EPA, coastal and water authorities. RMAT 98 Meet aspirational targets for regional sustainability through continued support for the South West Sustainability Partnership. RMAT 99 Support Landcare partnership through implementation of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Regional Landcare Strategy. RMAT 100 Build regional capacity through development of partnerships and support mechanisms for other environmental groups. RMAT 101 Build regional capacity through further development of local government partnership arrangements. RMAT 102 Increase industry involvement through further development of industry partnership arrangements. RMAT 103 Increase indigenous community involvement through further development of indigenous communities partnership arrangements. RMAT 104 Increase education sector involvement through further development of educational organisation partnership arrangements.

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6.3 ONGROUND WORKS

6.3.1 RATIONALE

The key regional challenges presented in this strategy detail the need for an ambitious onground works program. In the broadest terms, priority onground works are those which protect and link remnant vegetation, control groundwater recharge, reduce soil erosion, protect and rehabilitate rivers and wetlands and control pest plant and animal infestations. Detailed assessment of priority onground works in the catchment is found in the individual action plans. Onground works will be completed through a mix of volunteer and professional labour and need to be supported by a range of funding, research, OBJECTIVE extension, training and administration initiatives. Groups and individuals undertaking To build capacity among the onground works need to be aware of their legislative obligations to protect sites and places community, landholders, of Aboriginal heritage (RMAT 105). industry and regional natural resource management agencies 6.3.2 VOLUNTEERS to undertake onground works.

Volunteers have been a strong element in the success of natural resource management in the Glenelg Hopkins region. Landcare groups are a prime example and have achieved significant restoration and remediation works. Other volunteer activities are organised by a range of organisations, such as Australian Trust for Conservation Volunteers and Greening Australia. Market research commissioned by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA found a high level of willingness to participate in natural resource management activities. Of the sample surveyed, 37% indicated they had taken part in the past but were not actively involved currently, 20% were actively involved, 15% had never taken part but were interested, while only 28% had no interest in participating230. This illustrates the level of community commitment to natural resource management and the chance to expand participation rates, particularly among urban communities. ‘Burnout’ is a concern among volunteer groups, and strategies and support packages must be advanced to address the loss of this vital resource. Volunteers must feel valued and be given the opportunity to participate in training and education activities to ensure optimal outcomes from their hard work are achieved. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA, DPI/DSE and Greening Australia have provided significant training opportunities for volunteers and these types of programs should be retained and enhanced. Information regarding opportunities to become a volunteer must be distributed throughout the community (RMAT 106).

6.3.3 LANDHOLDERS

With most of the catchment under private ownership, the ongoing involvement and participation of landholders also is vital. Landholders must at least be made aware of their legal obligations to manage their land appropriately (RMAT 107). Awareness-raising and training activities must be implemented to ensure landholders understand the particular degrading processes impacting on their land and the remediation options available (RMAT 108). They must be fully informed on available funding incentives to protect and enhance the assets that they control, and to minimise the offsite impacts of their activities (RMAT 109).

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6.3.4 DEVELOPING A SKILLED LABOUR FORCE

Community jobs programs and Green Corp activities are Some onground works tasks may be best completed by another source available to secure onground outcomes, and volunteers, government departments and private contractors. several local councils and authorities participate in such Each project will identify the appropriate opportunities for the schemes. While volunteers and under-utilised labour are vital, involvement of each sector. The task for natural resource they cannot be expected to meet the regional challenges alone. managers is to clearly identify priority works areas, undertake In the past, works crews from local councils and government appropriate planning and management activities, undertake departments have undertaken significant onground initiatives onground works themselves where required, provide training and opportunities exist to expand this labour force. Emerging opportunities for community and agency staff and inform within the region are the fundamental building blocks of an individuals, private companies and other organisations of expanded environmental management industry, namely skilled funding arrangements. Provision should be made so that the personnel. Graduates from local universities, TAFE and licensing frameworks which govern onground works meet best community jobs programs have been extensively trained in practice and provide a timely response (RMAT 111). natural resource management. Local volunteers, farmers, contractors and firms also possess a wealth of skills and 6.3.5 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR knowledge applicable to onground outcomes. Fostering ONGROUND WORKS growth in this industry is a significant challenge and should be RMAT 105 Protect sites of cultural heritage through seen as an adjunct to volunteer programs. Industry development of protocols to protect sites and development may well release economies of scale and allow places of Aboriginal heritage. large-scale works to proceed at a faster rate than a simple reliance on volunteer labor. An appropriate mix of funding and RMAT 106 Build regional capacity through instituting a partnership arrangements is required to develop these private program to increase volunteer participation rates. enterprises (RMAT 110). RMAT 107 Build regional capacity through instituting a program to raise landholder awareness of legislative requirements. RMAT 108 Meet aspirational targets through instituting a program to raise landholder awareness of degrading processes and remediation options. RMAT 109 Raise community and landholder awareness of incentive programs. RMAT 110 Investigate funding and partnership arrangements required to further develop private natural resource industry. RMAT 111 Ensure licensing frameworks that govern onground works meet best practice.

Tree plantation “The Gums”. Photo: Jennie Sparke

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6.4 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND CAPACITY BUILDING

6.4.1 RATIONALE

Achieving meaningful long-term change in the health of the catchment and the way it is managed requires a holistic approach and investment in people and communities as much as into onground technical responses. An engaged catchment community that understands, supports, participates actively and has a strong sense of having control of programs that shape their landscapes is the most powerful tool for achieving change. Most OBJECTIVE people in the Glenelg Hopkins region live in urban centres, such as Warrnambool, Hamilton and Portland. Landowners outside these centres control a major proportion of the land, To engage the community in with the balance of people being found in smaller towns. Engaging both urban and rural two-way communication communities is vital. Engagement processes should reflect the different issues, knowledge processes to increase bases and levels of awareness within the various communities across the catchment awareness, understanding and (RMAT 112). The measure of effective community engagement is reflected by the degree to involvement in regional natural which people’s interests, concerns and ideas are recognised and incorporated in the resource management issues. To planning and implementation process. develop a stewardship ethic and empower people to act. Part of the challenge of natural resource management is to create and then maintain momentum. Undertaking high profile ‘icon’ projects can help achieve this outcome. Two key high profile landscape features within the region are volcanic cones and wetlands. Well-publicised projects based around these features should be undertaken (RMAT 113).

Comprehensive engagement requires natural resource managers to inform the community of issues and options, the compliance requirements placed on them by legislation and their roles in achieving a healthier catchment (RMAT 114). Community engagement requires effective consultation regarding policy, plans and decisions. It also requires the community to be involved in decision-making and, in some instances, the devolution of decision- making to community groups (RMAT 115). Capacity building, as distinct from engagement, is the process by which individuals, groups, organisations and societies develop their abilities to make informed decisions and be engaged and participate in sustainable natural resource management.

6.4.2 TRAINING

In recent years, the level of community engagement in natural resource management and the community’s capacity to act has grown remarkably. Thousands of people are involved in Landcare groups, volunteer tree planting, clean-up events, Waterwatch, Saltwatch and other monitoring activities. There remain significant opportunities to expand participation rates. Training and extension activities offered by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, DPI/DSE and Greening Australia have been successful and there is a groundswell of support for these initiatives to continue. Regional training delivery should seek to be flexible to accommodate regional or individual circumstances. Regional training approaches must be consistent with national approaches and should seek to include industry involvement in supporting and delivering services, landholder involvement in identifying training needs, skills development in the use of data and information systems and skills enhancement of support people and trainers231 (RMAT 116, RMAT 117).

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6.4.3 INFORMATION PROVISION message of their constituents into the planning process (RMAT 123). Community consultation beyond board and Community engagement and capacity building can be implementation committee structures is undertaken to ensure enhanced by informing people of the current state of the community views inform policy decisions and projects environment and ways improvements can be made. The Health undertaken. All endorsed strategies and plans are released for of the Catchment Report should be made readily available community consultation before adoption. Community through electronic means and in printed format. Local consultation in the region has traditionally been based around government actions relating to the health of the environment written documentation and public meetings. Social in their areas should be supported and the results made widely benchmarking surveys (such as that used in the development available (RMAT 118). The results of ongoing monitoring and of the RCS) and focus groups are used to ensure appropriate evaluation processes also must be made available in a variety consultation (RMAT 124). of formats to ensure the catchment community and stakeholders understand trends in catchment health and the 6.4.5 GLENELG HOPKINS CMA success of management programs (RMAT 119). In the past, COMMUNICATIONS PLAN natural resource managers have produced large amounts of helpful information on catchment management and an Effective communication is an important prerequisite to electronic central directory of management resources should achieving community engagement and capacity building. The be established (RMAT 120). Ways of improving access to Communications Plan produced as part of this RCS provides relevant data and information must be promoted and this the overarching framework for communicating natural theme is explored in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA resource issues coming from the RCS and the identified Communications Plan. regional challenges. It is, therefore, broader than community communications but includes this as an integral part. To best Communities must continue to be informed of opportunities support the implementation of the RCS, the Communications for involvement in incentive programs, volunteer activities, Plan has adopted a range of themes. Each theme has a goal, training, leadership building and consultative processes. supported by various objectives, with indicative actions and Brochures, media articles, electronic communications, tactics for achieving the objectives and goals. The themes newsletters and extension activities have been successful adopted in the Communications Plan are: (RMAT 121). Information provision should be guided by an 1. Effectively communicating roles and responsibilities in understanding of who is being targeted and how they are most natural resource management. likely to gain access. Information should be high quality, 2. Effective communication with partners in catchment consistent, timely, appropriately targeted and understandable and natural resource management to the audience. 3. Effective communication with organisations, groups and individual land managers involved in catchment 6.4.4 EMPOWERMENT and natural resource management The catchment management framework implemented in 4. Effective communication with State and Federal Victoria is designed to include community consultation, agencies involvement and empowerment through community boards 5. Effective communication of natural resource issues and committees. These structures are designed to formalise with catchment communities community input into natural resource management. 6. Research and review of information needs for effective Community members of boards and committees represent communication of catchment and natural resource major sectors of the community and stakeholders and are issues. designed as an easily identifiable point of contact between the community and natural resource managers. Increasing A number of key issues came out of the research and awareness of boards and implementation committees and consultation undertaken in preparation of the communicating their representative roles to the community Communications Plan. Firstly, there is a high level of will help improve processes of engagement and consultation recognition of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA. However, this does (RMAT 122). However, simple representation on boards and not appear to convert into a high level of understanding of its committees is not sufficient to ensure effective community roles and responsibilities. Therefore, the Communications Plan engagement. There is a need for boards and committees to focuses on clarification of roles and responsibilities of the establish mechanisms, procedures and policies to ensure Glenelg Hopkins CMA and communication of these to representatives report back to their constituents and carry the catchment audiences. Secondly, there are numerous agencies

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and groups involved in natural resource management. There •100% involvement of Indigenous communities related to appears to be a lack of understanding within catchment the particular environments where NRM activities are communities of their respective roles and responsibilities. conducted, by 2007. Liaison between agencies and groups, although improving, is •Target of representatives involved in regional forums still relatively adhoc and unco-ordinated. This tends to create subject to baseline data after 1 year. confusion within catchment audiences of who best to go to for • Increase in the number of people actively involved in NR particular issues, where assistance is available and how to activities by 4% per annum, from 20% in 2002. access resources. The Communications Plan addresses effective • Increase in the number of people involved in NR groups communication and natural resource planning between by 4% per annum, from 26% in 2002. agencies and organisations and more effective communication •Targets for satisfaction levels of groups dependent upon between natural resource agencies and organisations and baseline data after year 1. catchment communities. Thirdly, various volunteer groups • Increase in awareness of all NR issues by 4% per annum, have played a key role in natural resource activities over many from the 2002 research results. years. Given the increasing focus on natural resource activities • Conduct of additional qualitative research. and increasing resource availability, these groups will play a pivotal role in improving catchment health in the future. Key •Implementation of environmental awards. issues coming from consultation included a ‘burnout’ of •Set target of annual number of media feature, dependent volunteers and a feeling of isolation of these groups. A key upon baseline data after year 1. component of the Communications Plan is to strengthen and • 10% development and implementation of communications enhance the activities of volunteer groups through better and strategies for each NR project, by 2005. more targeted communication, linked with support activities •Target level of involvement of schools and/or students in and communication activities focusing on increasing group NRM activities dependent upon baseline data to be numbers and individual participant numbers. gathered after year 1. •Target of number of members of the community Finally, a fundamental component to improving the health of attending annual forums, dependent upon baseline data natural resources in the region is the effective engagement, after year 1. motivation, skilling and resourcing of individuals, groups and organisations. The Communications Plan explores the means by which regional audiences can be more engaged and involved in natural resource management activities. The communication “...a fundamental component to improving strategy describes a series of targets and evaluation tools to the health of natural resources in the provide indicative measures for monitoring the achievement of the objectives. The targets are as follows: region is the effective engagement, •To increase awareness of roles, responsibilities and motivation, skilling and resourcing of actions of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA by 2007. individuals, groups and organisations.” •To increase satisfaction with the website by users. •To increase the number of information kits distributed. The key issue in relation to increasing general community •To increase satisfaction with contact with Glenelg activation and achievement of targets is strategic Hopkins CMA staff by 25% per annum, from 82% in 2002. communications, with closer linking of communication •To increase awareness of the RCS within the catchment activities to onground activities (RMAT 125). Messages and community by 4% per annum, from 54% in 2002. tools will need to be adaptable to take account of changing •Establishment of annual integrated communication plans circumstances, both of the natural resource base and the involved all NR agencies. motivation, capabilities and undertakings of catchment • Number of collaborative communication initiatives audiences. between agencies. Target to be established from baseline data after year 1. • 100% awareness of Glenelg Hopkins CMA and activities by partner NR agencies by 2007. • 100% implementation of protocols by 2004.

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There are easily identifiable actions to further engagement and 6.4.6 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR capacity building that should be undertaken. A simple listing COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND CAPACITY of land and water management contacts in South West BUILDING Victoria produced in 2000 was highly successful in linking RMAT 112 Ensure community engagement processes reflect people to appropriate agencies and an expanded and updated different issues, knowledge bases and levels of version should be produced (RMAT 126). A compendium of awareness across catchment communities. available funding resources also should be produced to highlight opportunities to the community and management RMAT 113 Develop ‘icon’ projects. organisations (RMAT 127). Each individual project, whether it RMAT 114 Raise community awareness of issues and options, be strategic planning, research or onground works, must compliance requirements and actions required to develop and evaluate the profile of the community being achieve a healthier catchment. targeted, the appropriate means of engagement and existing or RMAT 115 Develop best practice community engagement required capacities of the community. In addition, there is a processes. broader need to develop a comprehensive strategic regional RMAT 116 Undertake investigation into training requirements capacity building initiative in the longer term. In the past, across the region. capacity building in the region has been undertaken on a piecemeal basis. While formal strategies to manage areas such RMAT 117 Build regional capacity through developing flexible as salinity or river health include engagement and capacity regional training opportunities and courses building elements, there is not the same level of specific consistent with national approaches. planning for people, particularly in relation to the RMAT 118 Increase community awareness by making Health requirements of engagement and capacity. There is a need to of the Catchment Report and local government develop a capacity building initiative in collaboration with environmental reporting available to the other agencies and stakeholders which benchmarks current community in a variety of formats. attitudes, knowledge and potential behavioral change RMAT 119 Ensure ongoing monitoring and evaluation reports mechanisms, and then sets a series of actions to develop the are made available across the catchment. necessary skills and knowledge that will enable people to be RMAT 120 Establish electronic guide of natural resource pro-active about change and direct it. The capacity building management resources. initiative should recognise the socio-economic makeup of the RMAT 121 Continue existing information communication community and the impact a changing socio-economic profile processes. will have in the future. A sound capacity building process will be grounded on environmental and socio-economic RMAT 122 Raise profile of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board information to ensure effective decision-making about how and Implementation Committees (IC). resources will be appropriately targeted in terms of priorities, RMAT 123 Establish mechanisms, procedures and policies to audiences, approaches and sub-catchments for intervention. ensure the Board and IC members report back to The initiative should focus not only on the capacity their constituents and carry the messages of their requirements of the community, but the natural resource constituents into the planning process. management and other agencies. Development of appropriate RMAT 124 Continue community consultation process in the regional indicators of engagement and capacity building also is development of endorsed strategies. required as a measure of performance. Such an initiative would RMAT 125 Meet communication targets through be an important vehicle for regional delivery of Federal and implementing the Glenelg Hopkins CMA State capacity building strategies (RMAT 128). Communications Plan. RMAT 126 Update the Land and Water Management Contacts booklet. RMAT 127 Produce compendium of funding resources available and provide this to the community and agencies. RMAT 128 Facilitate regional implementation of Federal and State Capacity Building Strategies through a Glenelg Hopkins CMA regional initiative.

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6.5 MONITORING, EVALUATION AND REPORTING

6.5.1 RATIONALE

The framework for the management of catchment health in the Glenelg Hopkins region needs to be adaptive. In essence, one that has built into it the capacity to learn from management decisions and to change management strategies on the basis of improved knowledge. An important element of this is feedback on the natural system’s response to management decisions and making adjustments on the basis of this information. This means good baseline information and continued monitoring and evaluation of production and management impacts. The information collected must be in a form useful to OBJECTIVE landholders, regional communities and governments. To ensure continual learning is incorporated through 6.5.2 MONITORING developing a monitoring, evaluation and reporting Monitoring the state of natural resources and the impacts of changing management framework capable of practices means that quality data needs to be collected regularly and consistently. informing natural resource Moreover, where feasible this data needs to be readily transferable between the different managers and the community levels of management, from the farm to the national scale. Monitoring within the of the effectiveness, efficiency catchment will be based around key indicators that provide feedback on the rate of and appropriateness of their achievement toward aspirational and resource condition targets. The monitoring network actions. plan currently under development for the Glenelg Hopkins region compiles information relating to all monitoring projects, including land, water and biodiversity, and will be completed in 2003. The plan benchmarks the current health of the catchment using the monitoring programs already in place. It then identifies the gaps in the current framework and develops a monitoring network that reflects the monitoring needs of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and the region and enables comprehensive reporting on the health of the catchment. It identifies timeframes and resources needed. Improved monitoring of the health of the catchment has been identified as a priority regional objective and, as such, implementing the monitoring network will begin immediately. A State-wide review of monitoring frameworks within CMAs is scheduled to begin in late 2002. This will help further define monitoring requirements and regional roles and responsibilities (RMAT 129).

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE must continue to build the capacity of the community to monitor the health of its resources. Low-cost technologies for collecting data at local and farm scale through soil and water analysis kits, supported by programs such as Waterwatch and Saltwatch, help build the capacity of the community to monitor the effects of their actions and those of others and should continue to be supported (RMAT 130). Other sources of community information, such as Field Naturalist surveys, also need to be captured (RMAT 131).

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6.5.3 EVALUATION AND ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT

The RCS and associated action plans are based on the best All projects should incorporate monitoring, evaluation and available science and knowledge of community and State and reporting that relates to accountability and adaptive Federal Government objectives. Over time, scientific management. However, full-scale evaluation should be knowledge of the catchment, community expectations and the strategic and directed at the program or key regional challenge objectives and expectations of different levels of government area. will increase. Assumptions underlying the strategic approach will need to be tested through research and the impact of Completed evaluations must be available across the region to activities evaluated through analysis of monitoring results ensure knowledge is captured and continuous learning and (RMAT 132). Knowledge of regional assets and their value improvements made. Evaluation at the program, action plan across the economic, social and environmental spectrum will and RCS level must build on project evaluation incorporating be developed, stakeholder capacity will be enhanced and specialised processes. Evaluation of projects, programs and community values in relation to natural resource management strategies is an important step. There has been a long-standing will change. Incorporating the knowledge gained through commitment to evaluation of projects in the region, the results monitoring, evaluation and research is critical in supporting of which are consolidated for input into the annual reporting sound decision-making processes for ongoing implementation processes. Development of project evaluation processes is of the RCS (RMAT 133). ongoing within the region. A project officer has been appointed within the Glenelg Hopkins CMA to drive the evaluation process. A discussion paper on evaluation covering issues regarding processes to monitor actions for their effectiveness, processes for monitoring and reporting and the evaluation of actions which are which are not the direct responsibility of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is in preparation at the time of finalising this strategy. A copy of the discussion paper is available on request from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA and partners will co-ordinate timely evaluation of the RCS based on program logic, with particular emphasis on using Bennett’s Hierarchy. Processes for continuous improvement of the RCS will be implemented through the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board following evaluation. Evaluation will focus strongly on the assumptions that underlie the actions and programs implemented (RMAT 134). A mid-term and final evaluation of the RCS will be carried out in 2005 and Water monitoring. Photo: Jennie Sparke 2007 to further refine the strategy and help guide the development of the third generation RCS. These evaluations Adaptive management is based on the cycle of planning, will be guided by a core evaluation strategy currently being implementation, monitoring, evaluation, review and developed by the Commonwealth and State under the NAP improvement. Natural resource management in the region has program. passed through one rotation of this cycle with the development, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and 6.5.4 REPORTING review of the original RCS. This RCS incorporates these learnings in outlining the way forward for strategic Reporting of outcomes will mainly be achieved through the management of the region’s natural resources. Evaluation Glenelg Hopkins CMA Annual Report, which will include a needs to occur at a range of scales and timeframes and must section summarising trends in catchment health and detail begin with a determination of what success would look like. project evaluations (RMAT 135). Reporting to investors will While full-scale evaluation of all projects and programs would depend on their specified requirements (RMAT 136). be beneficial, limited resources mean that evaluation must be Monitoring and evaluation results will be made available carried out strategically in a manner that helps build through the Glenelg Hopkins CMA website, which will be evaluation capacity. This capacity can be built through updated regularly (RMAT 137). workshop training for staff and consultation with evaluation experts to help design appropriate plans.

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6.5.5 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT ACTION TARGETS FOR MONITORING, EVALUATION AND REPORTING

RMAT 129 Finalise and implement a Glenelg Hopkins CMA monitoring plan and ensure compliance with State-wide review. RMAT 130 Build community capacity by continuing support for community-based monitoring activities. RMAT 131 Seek to capture monitoring information from groups such as Field Naturalists. RMAT 132 Build regional knowledge base by investigating assumptions underlying strategic planning processes. RMAT 133 Meet objectives of adaptive management by incorporating knowledge gained through monitoring and evaluation into decision-making process. RMAT 134 Undertake strategic evaluation of programs based on core evaluation strategy currently being developed by the State and Commonwealth. RMAT 135 Report outcomes of regional investment, trends in catchment health and evaluation of programs in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Annual Report and through other communications devices. RMAT 136 Report to investors as required. RMAT 137 Make monitoring and evaluation results available through the Glenelg Hopkins CMA website.

Table 13 ~ Bennett’s Evaluation Hierarchy and the Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy

Evaluation Category Description Data Sources 1. Outcome Progress toward achieving a healthier catchment as Key indicator monitoring. Case studies, etc. measured against aspirational and resource condition targets set for each of the key regional challenges. 2. Practices Improved strategic planning. Partnership Social benchmarking surveys. Number of significant developed. Onground works undertaken. Level of assets protected through planning. Level of community engagement and capacity. Effectiveness regional research activity. Stakeholder partnership of monitoring and evaluation. perceptions. Outcomes of onground works. Adoption of best practice. Biophysical outcomes. Community participation rates. Comprehensiveness and use of monitoring and evaluation data. 3. Knowledge, Knowledge of catchment processes and health. Program evaluation. Reactions. Social Attitudes, Skills, Attitude change in natural resource management. benchmarking survey. Community consultation. Aspirations Skills acquired Aspirations for continued change. 4. Participation Level and breakdown of community participation Program and project evaluations. in various programs and projects. 5. Activities Description of programs and projects undertaken Staff consultations. Program and project under the RCS umbrella. evaluations. 6. Resources Level of investment in natural resource Various sources across the region, including annual management in region. Includes dollars, people, reports from Glenelg Hopkins CMA, DPI/DSE, EPA, skills, time, situation analysis, levels of councils. participation.

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7.0 IMPLEMENTING THE STRATEGY

7.1 NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN THE GLENELG HOPKINS REGION

Management of natural resources in the region is divided among individuals, industries and organisations. Implementing the strategy will rely on organisations and individuals recognising the importance of their role and how it contributes to improving the health of the catchment. Influences on the style of management practices adopted are wide and varied. The Federal and State Governments have a major impact through their legislative frameworks and guidelines, funding practices and extension networks, as do local councils through their rating policies and planning frameworks. The Federal and State Governments are critical to natural resource7 management as partners with the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, other agencies and the community. Effective communication with both levels of government is critical to: the development of an enhanced level of understanding of natural resource issues and priorities in the region; effective participation in partnership management and undertaking activities of benefit to the catchment; and, in a pragmatic sense, ensuring public funds are spent wisely, produce tangible outcomes and are accounted for.

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Individual landholders control the majority of resources and, 7.2.1 INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES as such, their management practices have an enormous impact on catchment health. The activities of local communities Much of the work in developing this Strategy has involved through organisations such as Landcare also are influential. close consultation with the regional community and Industries directly and indirectly affect the style of stakeholders to ensure the actions and objectives presented management practices adopted, as do the buying practices of reflect and correspond to their expectations. Community and consumers in national and international markets. Accepting stakeholder priorities are open to a range of influences and this perspective of the influences on natural resource change quite rapidly. Therefore investment planning should management helps identify multiple points of influence and also involve close consultation to ensure that current potential opportunities to initiate change. Further, it is in community and stakeholder priorities are addressed. Already keeping with the broader philosophy of integrated catchment detailed within this Strategy is the move toward an asset-based management. Table 14 briefly summarises the major approach (See Section 3.11). Improved knowledge of assets and organisations and groups responsible for natural resource threats will help direct investment to assets of greatest value management in the Glenelg Hopkins region. The regional or those under the greatest threat at a sub-catchment level. capacity building initiative, described in section 6.4, will Much of the existing detail of particular assets and threats is undertake an analysis of each regional group in terms of their contained within the associated plans such as the River Health ability to fulfil their role and suggest intervention actions. Strategy and Salinity Plan which both identify priority sub- catchments for action. Future work required in terms of asset identification is detailed in section 3.11 of the strategy. 7.2 INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK AND Investment prioritisation should be made with reference to the PRIORITISATION PROCESS potential resource condition change that will occur and those actions that result in the greatest positive change should be Through natural resource investment, the region aims to supported. Most investments will impact on a range of natural create a healthier catchment capable of supporting a range of resource outcomes. For example, tackling issues of salinity industries, environments and social aspirations. This through vegetation re-establishment will also improve water investment will be guided by the actions, targets and principles quality and improve biodiversity. Therefore the level of set forward in this strategy. The RCS is an overarching long- multiple benefit is another criteria to guide investment term document that represents the goals and aspirations of a prioritisation. Other important criteria are the dollar cost of variety of organisations and community groups. As such it is the action and cost effectiveness and likelihood of success. recognised that the number of organisations involved, the Table 15 summarises the investment principles negotiated with growing level of baseline information and changing catchment key stakeholders and the community. condition means that investment priorities within each of the priority regional challenges and integration tool areas are more sensibly and equitably set on a yearly basis through the investment planning process.

The RCS is designed to be a “big picture” document and sets a number of aspirational targets and management actions to meet these targets. Action plans incorporated in the strategy also recommend actions in specific areas. The limited investment funds available means not all actions proposed in 7 the strategy and associated action plans can be realistically achieved. Therefore, principles, processes and tools that guide prioritisation of investment to achieve the greatest overall benefit are necessary. The purpose of this section of the strategy is to set the overarching context through which natural resource funds can be directed.

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Table 14 ~ Regional Groups: Their Roles and Responsibilities

Agency Roles and Responsibilities Glenelg Hopkins CMA Responsible for preparation of RCS, licensing of works on waterways and regional drainage and floodplain management. Works to protect and enhance regional land and water resources, provides regional leadership and co-ordination, sets regional priorities, prepares action plans, undertakes onground works, builds capacity for community action, monitors and evaluates catchment condition and fills knowledge gaps. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA acts as a knowledge broker and develops high quality regionally co- ordinated funding bids to attract investment. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA is the regional co-ordinator of the Waterwatch program. Department of Primary Industries, Department of Sustainability and Environment (formerly Natural Resources and Environment) DPI/DSE are the key service provider within South West Victoria and are charged with generating wealth through the sustainable development of Victoria’s natural resources. DPI/DSE vision is that ‘communities prosper through their sustainable use of the environment’. DPI/DSE employ more than 4,000 staff across the State. DPI/DSE works to ensure Victoria’s natural and cultural assets are managed to secure social, environmental and economic benefits for current and future generations. DPI/DSE’s at the regional level, delivers a wide range of services across various programs: 1. Agricultural Industries, including Animal Quality Assurance, Meat and Wool Industries, Plant Industries and the Dairy Industry 2. Catchment and Water, including Sustainable Agriculture and Land Management, Pest Plants and Animals and Sustainable Rural Development 3. Fisheries 4. Forest Management 5. Commercial Forests 6. Fire Management 7. Flora and Fauna (Biodiversity) 8. Land Victoria, including Coasts and Crown Land Management 9. Aboriginal Affairs and Indigenous Communities and Culture These service delivery responsibilities include: community engagement, partnerships with a wide range of organisations, groups and stakeholders, strategic and specific area planning, education and extension services, contribution to policy development and review, legislation development and enforcement, collection and provision of land resource management information, land and natural resource monitoring and emergency and contingency management planning and response (e.g. fire, animal disease control.) Local Government An important influence on natural resource management through its responsibilities for land-use planning, development approvals, rates and a variety of services, such as road construction and maintenance. Local government also owns and manages large areas of land. Some regional councils have been involved in developing sustainability blueprints and local environmental plans. Councils with jurisdiction across the Glenelg Hopkins region are Ararat, Ballarat, Corangamite, Horsham, Glenelg, Moyne, Northern Grampians, Pyrenees, Southern Grampians, Warrnambool and West Wimmera. Urban Water Authorities Water authorities provide water and wastewater services to urban communities and management of specific water supply catchments. Authorities operating in the catchment include Central Highlands Water, Glenelg Water, Grampians Water, South West Water and Portland Coast Water. Western Coastal Board The Western Coastal Board endeavors to maintain the natural attractions of the coast and develop sustainable practices for the use of the coastline. The Western Coastal Board implements the endorsed Victorian Coastal Strategy through co-ordinated planning achieved by negotiation and co-operation with all stakeholders. The Western Coastal Board provides leadership in coastal planning, promotes the sustainable use of natural, social and economic systems within the coastal environment, facilitates appropriate development, recognises the importance of cultural and historic values and encourages community participation. Environment Protection Authority EPA’s primary role is to protect air, water and land from pollution, control industrial noise and minimise waste generation. The Environment Protection Act (1970) provides a range of tools to accomplish this, including development of statutory policies (SEPPs), which set standards for environmental quality in Victoria, licensing of significant discharges to the environment, enforcement tools and partnership tools. Monitoring and research work support these activities. Rural Water Authorities Rural water authorities provide irrigation, drainage, water supply and management of specific water supply catchments. They issue licenses for surface and groundwater extractions. Southern Rural Water and Wimmera Mallee Water operate in the Glenelg Hopkins catchment. Wimmera Mallee Water manages water resources in the Upper Glenelg and Wannon Rivers, including irrigation diversions, reservoirs and provision of environmental flows. Landholders Landholders are the key group impacting on catchment health through their use of resources. Responsible under the Catchment and Land Protection Act to: 1) avoid causing or contributing to land degradation which causes or may cause damage to land of another owner; 2) conserve soil; 3) protect water resources; 4) eradicate regionally prohibited weeds; 5) prevent the growth and spread of regionally controlled weeds; 6) prevent the spread of, and as far as possible eradicate, established pest animals.

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Table 14 ~ Regional Groups: Their Roles and Responsibilities, continued

Agency Roles and Responsibilities Landcare A community-based network responsible for specific area planning and onground works. It helps promote the Landcare philosophy through organising training, workshops and community information events. Greening Australia Greening Australia, a national community organisation, supports Bushcare and Farm Forestry programs. It provides technical advice, education and training, awareness-raising and co-ordinates projects. Greening Australia also manages planting programs and operates seed banks, seed orchards and nurseries. Parks Victoria Parks Victoria manages 223,552 ha within the catchment. Its primary role is the protection of the natural and cultural values of Victoria’s terrestrial and marine parks and reserves network through ecologically sustainable management and visitor access. Regional Community Central role in successful natural resource management. The community must support and be involved in initiatives to restore the health of the catchment. Environmental awareness and sustainable practices must be included in their everyday activities. Aboriginal Groups Possess knowledge of the catchment and its processes that must be understood and shared. They directly control areas of land and should be involved more broadly to ensure knowledge is captured and cultural artifacts protected. Major Aboriginal organisations operating in the region include the Winda Mara Aboriginal Corporation, the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative Brambuk and Framlingham Aboriginal Trust. Universities and South West College of TAFE Universities and TAFE Colleges operating in the region must continue to provide a high level of service and produce graduates with an extensive knowledge of natural resource management issues. They have an ongoing role in providing support to natural resource managers through student and staff involvement in catchment initiatives. South West Sustainability Partnership Peak body involving the major natural resource management agencies. The role of the partnership is vital in information sharing, support for catchment health initiatives and raising the profile of sustainability. Trust for Nature Trust for Nature is a non-profit organisation which works to protect remnant vegetation. The trust focuses on its conservation covenant program and the purchase and re-selling of high conservation value land through its revolving fund. It assists community groups to purchase property, provides information and seeks to add value to regional research. VicRoads VicRoads is responsible for maintaining and improving the condition and performance of Victoria’s 22,240 kilometres of arterial roads and 4,924 bridges and major culverts. VicRoads also develops road safety programs, registers vehicles and issues drivers’ licenses. VicRoads is actively involved in developing roadside management plans for major roads. These plans will assist in managing roadside environments and include sections on pest plants and animals, retention of significant roadside areas, maintenance strategies and maintenance of firebreaks. Industry Through its operating practices, industry is able to exert significant influence over natural resource management outcomes. It should strive to achieve environmental best practice and actively participate and support catchment health initiatives. Research Organisations Regional organisations involved in research, such as the Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, universities and DPI/DSE must act to fulfil information gaps across the catchment. They should strive to meet agreed regional research priorities and have their expertise and research outcomes accessible to a variety of groups. Beside the Pastoral and Veterinary Institute other DPI/DSE research institutes outside the region that have a key role to play in the catchment are Centre for Land Protection Research and the Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research. Watershed 2000 Watershed 2000 is a community-based organisation facilitated by the Central Hopkins Land Protection Association. It seeks to undertake projects around the Mortlake area within five sectors - business, education, people, research and environment. Education Sector The education sector, in particular primary, secondary and adult providers, have a vital role in raising the awareness of natural management issues. Where possible, curriculum should include regionally relevant information. Continued participation in activities such as Waterwatch is needed to ensure the next and current generation of land managers has the capacity to successfully manage the catchment.

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Table 15 ~ Investment Principles of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA

Principle 1 As a democratic society, government and private investment should be guided by and Meeting Community Expectations reflect community expectations. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA is a community-based body and, as such, will meet community expectations that valued economic, environmental and social assets will be protected and enhanced and that a baseline level of service will be provided across the catchment. This should not exclude managing and guiding community expectations, particularly where existing community expectations are not considered consistent with ecologically sustainable development and integrated management of natural resources. Principle 2 An asset-based approach to investment is required. This demands detailed knowledge and Priority Knowledge-based valuation of assets to allow prioritisation and an understanding of the risk to these assets. Asset Protection and Enhancement This sets the framework to treat causes and threats rather than just symptoms. Valuing economic assets is relatively straightforward; valuing social and environmental assets is more difficult. New methods are being investigated through the River Health Strategy. Principle 3 Risk analysis should be a principle underlying regional investment. Risk analysis should be Risk Analysis based on the best available information to determine the likelihood of events occurring and the magnitude of their consequences. Principle 4 Investments in natural resources will often have benefits across a range of key regional Multiple Benefit challenges and sectors. Investment should favor those projects or actions that provide the greatest multiple benefit. Principle 5 Investment should recognise the need to build the capacity within the region through Building Regional Capacity training, education, research, communication and extension activities. This includes capacity building within the community and key stakeholders, and also cross- organisational capacity building. Principle 6 The expenditure of government funds places an onus on the region to be fully Accountability and Transparency accountable. Accountability can be based on outcomes, such as extent of areas rehabilitated or number of people receiving training courses, and should include indicators of catchment health. Investment decision processes must be transparent and defensible.

7.2.2 INVESTMENT PLANNING PROCESS

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA investment framework formalises a process for the strategic regional investment of funds received from a range of sources. Investment in outcomes is achieved through consultation, the identification of regional assets, identification of threats and establishment of appropriate projects. Finalised and prioritised projects are detailed in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Investment Plan (3 years) and the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Regional Management Plan (yearly). The Glenelg Hopkins CMA only supports regional projects which are aligned to catchment programs and provide a fully integrated approach. In developing priority projects, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA conducts extensive community consultation through which issues are identified and projects developed. The next phase in catchment planning will ensure management actions defined in the region’s various strategies and plans are implemented on-ground in an integrated manner. The process for achieving this will be to engage community and natural resource agencies in the development of Integrated Management Plans at the scale of the 32 identified sub- catchments. A first Integrated Management Plan pilot project will be completed in 2003, with the process being evaluated and refined on completion and then used as a template for production of subsequent Sub-Catchment Integrated Management Plans (SCIMP’s).

The existing framework established by the State Government is used by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA to prioritise regional investment initiatives. Implementation Committees, the Regional Investment Group and the Board, as the final arbiter, provide a step-by-step process for prioritisation. The Implementation Committees, Regional Investment Group and the Board have wide-ranging representation (community, DPI/DSE, water authorities, local government and tertiary institutions) and are therefore in a strong position to represent regional interests.

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In making deliberations about investment priorities these The roles of committees and recommended steps in investment groups consider the cost and benefits of actions National prioritisation are: guidelines for investment strategies emphasise the need to • The Waterways Implementation Committee (WIC) and fully cost the actions and benefits and to provide a cost benefit Waterways Manager are responsible for identifying ratio. Costs are expected to include existing and future priority initiatives (not just onground works) relevant to resource degradation so that improvements in resource the protection and enhancement of waterways and water condition or slowing of degradation can be identified as resources. benefits. In assessing benefits it is therefore necessary to assess • The Land and Biodiversity Implementation Committee the extent to which proposed actions address threats to (LABIC) and Land & Biodiversity Manager are responsible natural resources. For example what are the magnitude and for identifying priority initiatives (not just onground works) implications of the processes that are threatening natural relevant to the protection and enhancement of resources? What is the severity of the threat? How likely is it biodiversity, soils and salinity issues. to occur? How long might it persist? What are the likely • Both committees will co-ordinate activities to ensure consequences? multiple outcomes are achieved when undertaking projects that form part of the annual investment process. Traditional cost benefit analysis is difficult in the natural resource management field as in many cases a monetary value • The Regional Investment Group (RIG) will consider projects cannot reasonably be assigned to social or environmental that fall outside Waterways and Land & Biodiversity areas benefits as many of the goods and services provided by natural such as information technology, communications and resources are not traded in commercial markets. While regional sustainability. valuation techniques such as community willingness to pay do • The Regional Investment Group will conduct a final exist, they do not provide the same level of perceived accuracy evaluation of the projects nominated as priorities by the as those determined through commercial markets alone. This three groups. This committee will have “cross highlights the need for natural resource investment planners representation” from the ICs, Board and management, thus to incorporate a range of factors across the economic, allowing a regional perspective in any decision-making environmental and social spectrum. This is consistent with the process. Its role will be to ensure that investment principles national and international trend of evaluating options and and criteria described in section 7.2.1 of the RCS have been reporting progress against the triple bottom line. Adoption of appropriately considered. the triple bottom line implies that the following factors need On completing the evaluation and suitable prioritisation of the to be considered when prioritising investment options: proposed investments (projects), the RIG will submit • Extent to which the action helps maintain or enhance high- recommendations to the Board for approval. Note: It is not the value agricultural, industry and regional enterprises. role of the RIG to change the priorities established by WIC or • Extent to which the action protects and maintains LABIC but to amalgamate the three programs (WIC, LABIC & significant cultural, indigenous and heritage assets. RIG) prioritised listings into one priority list; that is the Glenelg • Extent to which the action contributes to a substantial Hopkins Investment Plan. increase in community awareness and involvement. On approval by the Board, the proposed investments can be • Extent to which the action helps to maintain, restore or included in the Budget preparation process and the Regional enhance the condition of priority land, water and Management Plan. The Investment Plan, which flows from this biodiversity assets. strategy, sets forward a business case for regional investment. • Extent to which the action contributes to the sustainable The Investment Plan informs the Regional Management Plan, use of land water and biodiversity assets. which is a detailed contractual arrangement between the • Extent to which the action builds knowledge and fills key Glenelg Hopkins CMA and investors establishing how the knowledge gaps and supports improved resource Investment Plan is to be implemented on a yearly basis. Figure 21 management. illustrates the process of converting the RCS into prioritised • Extent to which the action avoids serious consequences actions. Multi-criteria analysis will be used to generate trade-off 232 associated with doing nothing. information about multiple project impacts and provide a ranking protocol for project selection. A draft project proposal assessment form is included in Appendix 5.

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Figure 21 ~ Converting the RCS into Prioritised Investment Proposal

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7.2.3 INVESTMENT TOOLS

New tools and techniques (decision support systems) are being developed to help guide investment prioritisation within catchments. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA as a leader in catchment management will seek where possible to contribute to the development and refinement of processes and ensure they are adopted as part of the best practice management approach. The Victorian Government has invested significant funds in the development of the Catchment Assessment Tool (CAT) that uses varying data layers to identify where issues are individually and where they overlap. When available the CAT will be adopted. The effectiveness of other decision support systems will be investigated as part of the ongoing refinement of the investment planning process.

7.3 SECURING INVESTMENT FUNDS

Co-ordination and the will of the community will not be sufficient to resolve the region’s natural resource issues. Substantial improvements in the health of the catchment will require financial, administrative and labour resources. The Glenelg Hopkins region alone cannot support the full costs of remedial measures and substantial government investment will be required. Within the catchment, there is a strong view that exploitation of the Glenelg Hopkins region ensured the early prosperity of Victoria and Australia. The expansion of agricultural activities in the region, which created the myriad of environmental problems now being experienced, generated significant wealth that was captured elsewhere. With a declining population base and lack of a significant regional rate base, ongoing investment by State and Federal Governments will be required to protect agricultural and tourism assets that generate billions of dollars in export earnings and contribute substantially to gross domestic product and taxation revenue. The region will need to produce high quality funding bids capable of winning an appropriate share of government investment. However, a simple reliance on government investment will not be sufficient. Corporate sponsorship of remediation action across the region has been limited and there remains significant scope to attract further investment. There also is a need to investigate ways that revenue produced from assets, such as quality water, can be linked back to protection and remedial measures and provide an ongoing stable income stream.

Aerial photo of Wannon River. Photo: Gill Fry

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7.4 CREATING DESIRED OUTCOMES

There a number of ways of achieving desired outcomes across the key regional challenge and implementation tool areas. Financial incentives have been used successfully to this point. Incentives are aimed at assisting land managers to ensure landholders undertake management practices that market forces may not encourage. Direct incentives include a range of government grants. Indirect incentives include tax rebates applicable to Landcare works. Local government incentives can include deducting the value of land set aside for revegetation from land values used for rate assessments. Regulations exist for the control of activities that are detrimental to the health of the catchment. These regulations are contained in, or associated with, State and Federal Government legislation and local government planning schemes. Suasion methods are generally those aimed at convincing people of the need to change their behavior or introduce new practices. The engagement and capacity building practices highlighted in this strategy form important suasion methods to achieve the desired outcomes.

7.5 RISK ASSESSMENT

Through consultation with its major stakeholders, consultants and staff, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA has identified the key risk areas and had these appropriately recorded in its Risk Library. The Risk Library and associated systems allows the Glenelg Hopkins CMA to review, analyse, evaluate, treat, monitor and communicate any risk in a manner that minimises risks and maximises opportunities. Staff training has been undertaken in identification and management of risk and continuing training and refreshment is an ongoing commitment by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA. The following table constructed as part of the associated Investment Plan reflects the broader issues that have been, and will continue to be, addressed by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA in its activities.

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Table 16 ~ Glenelg Hopkins CMA Risk Assessment Overview

Specific Risk Description of Risk Likelihood of impact Risk management strategies Community The risk of partners (individuals, Rare/Unlikely: Could mean that a Most partners and stakeholders Capacity to Landcare groups, agencies [e.g. small percentage of projects fail have been consulted. Where Implement DPI/DSE Business Units, local to meet timelines or need to be projects are to commence later gov’t & water authorities] and rescheduled to obtain the in the financial year, plans are in business) not being able to preferred outcome. place to undertake appropriate dedicate the time or resources consultation and engagement to to undertake projects in the ensure project commitment. time span originally agreed. Glenelg Hopkins The risk of the Glenelg Hopkins Unlikely: However, the degree of Strategic planning completed for CMA Capacity to CMA not having the staff, risk depends on the final individual projects, which will be Implement experience or equipment to outcomes of Investment Plan revisited on finalisation of undertake projects. components and timing of program to ensure strategic projects that form the (whole of) program ramifications investment. Could mean considered. Special consideration engagement of short-term to be given to the timing of the resources to overcome issues - projects to ensure they are impact likely to be monetary managed to maximise use of rather than non-performance. internal resources - e.g. staggering of projects to more effectively share (say) vehicle & GPS use. Achievement of The risk of not being able to Unlikely: Covered in above two Covered in above two risks. Target (timelines) meet timelines. risks, but also includes the issue of weather - drought, flood or unseasonal conditions that can (say) affect planting times or access to property. Capacity to The risk of not knowing exactly Moderate: There is still some Close communication being Evaluate, Monitor what needs to be evaluated, work to be completed to ensure undertaken with State & and Report monitored and reported the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is fully Commonwealth to ensure the aware of the requirements of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is fully Commonwealth and the State. aware of standards required and is in a position to comply Communications The risk of not being able or Unlikely/Rare: While unlikely, The Glenelg Hopkins CMA failing to communicate the any failure to maximise believes it is essential to ensure value of the National Action communications would place the community support and Plan (and other programs) Glenelg Hopkins CMA at a involvement in projects. The toward achieving improved & disadvantage in trying to Glenelg Hopkins CMA has a sustainable outcomes for water encourage new projects to meet Communications Plan based on quality and quantity, salinity environmental challenges. This high quality research and a pro- and biodiversity throughout the would be detrimental to the active program that has been in region. progress being achieved at place - and upgraded continually present. using regional feedback - over the past five years. Capacity Building The risk of failing to increase the Unlikely: However failure to The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has knowledge, desire and adequately increase capacity in several projects that will commitment of the community the areas considered priorities enhance its ability to increase to engage in actions that may reduce the capacity for community capacity. These are enhance the sustainability of wise investment (also effect risks paramount to future success. The the region. 1 & 6). projects include IT Information availability, R & D, provision of better quality facilitation and collection of strategic data sets that allow the community and Glenelg Hopkins CMA to improve decision-making. Essentially projects derived from the consideration of regional risks.

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Table 16 ~ Glenelg Hopkins CMA Risk Assessment Overview, continued

Specific Risk Description of Risk Likelihood of impact Risk management strategies R & D Knowledge As previous - and the Unlikely: However, failure to do The communications project, as transference importance of ensuring so would reduce the potential of well as all capacity building-type intellectual gains are made partners to recognise projects, have a commitment to available through the broadest opportunities and threats and the cross fertilisation of best channels and enhance regional ultimately to invest time and practice examples. In addition, capacity. money into achieving ‘Triple several Glenelg Hopkins CMA Bottom Line’ outcomes. projects have “demo days” that will allow interested parties to move from the concept stage to the hands-on or practical stage, thereby enhancing knowledge transfer. O H & S Issues The risk of injury to staff, Moderate: The impact could The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has a stakeholders and public. generally be said to be local and, OH&S policy that protects staff. therefore, very unlikely and of Arrangements are made to low risk. However, serious injury consult with insurers (VMIA) to that reaches the media could ensure that when stakeholders have an adverse impact on other and the public are involved risks projects unless handled are minimised. In addition to risk professionally. minimisation, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA ensures it maintains maximum insurance protection. Indigenous Heritage The risk of alienating the Moderate: There are two The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has Values indigenous community by failing significant risks in dealing with consulted with indigenous to respect its heritage values. indigenous values - that the communities in preparing the Glenelg Hopkins CMA alienates RCS. This has provided The people who have an extensive Glenelg Hopkins CMA with a understanding of lands and series of contact points and a weakens great partnership; the clear understanding of its Glenelg Hopkins CMA damages its responsibilities in relation to image through failure to consult indigenous issues and adequately as a potential result opportunities. In particular, it is of adverse publicity. aware of areas where specific consultation is required - e.g. coast and Ararat Hills area, Lakes Bolac and Condah. Consultation will be ongoing. Heritage Values The risk of damaging natural or Unlikely: the Glenelg Hopkins The Health of the Catchment European heritage through (say) CMA needs to ensure that public Report identifies regional assets failure to address salinity or & private benefit is clearly and, together with the River sand management issues. established. Through lack of Health Strategy, Salinity Plan and action, the risk is losing some Native Vegetation Plan, provides European icons - e.g. bridges, the direction and priorities for buildings - or damage to areas of appropriate conservation and vital value to future generations. enhancement actions / initiatives. The prioritisation and compliance with these directives and inclusion in partnership activities ultimately addresses regional risk management issues.

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Table 16 ~ Glenelg Hopkins CMA Risk Assessment Overview, continued

Specific Risk Description of Risk Likelihood of impact Risk management strategies Downstream or The risk associated with losing Rare/Unlikely: Failure to ensure The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has a Collateral Impacts - or damaging biodiversity or these risks are considered could strong risk management process Biodiversity biodiversity habitat - aquatic or threaten rare or endangered in place. This includes, on the terrestrial - by onground works species or place a species in an micro-level, consideration of undertaken by the Glenelg endangered category. Likewise, it projects using the Biodiversity Hopkins CMA . could detrimentally effect the Risk Management Protocols. This values of local infrastructure (e.g ensures that projects are water supply). Any negative considered using all available outcome would have substantial data - e.g. biodiversity mapping detrimental effects on the of the Dundas Tablelands and perceived management ability of State Govt info on protected & the Glenelg Hopkins CMA endangered species. It also through all partnership levels - considers the broader inter- community and government. catchment risks provided through the River Health Strategy, Native Vegetation Plan and the Salinity Plan. Downstream or The risk associated with Rare/Unlikely: Failure to ensure The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has a Collateral Impacts - detrimentally effecting water these risks are considered could strong risk management process Water quality - salinity & nutrient threaten rare or endangered in place . This includes, on the increase, sedimentation, erosion species or place a species in an micro-level, consideration of and algae outbreaks - and endangered category. Likewise, it projects using the Biodiversity through river mouth openings could detrimentally effect the Risk Management Protocols. This or through diversion, loss of values of local infrastructure ensures that projects are flow (quantity) by onground (e.g. water supply). Any negative considered using all available works undertaken by the outcome would have substantial data. It would include detailed Glenelg Hopkins CMA. detrimental effects on the River Management Plans and perceived management ability of relevant data overlays that the Glenelg Hopkins CMA identify assets at risk (natural through all partnership levels - and man-made) and State Govt community and government. info on protected & endangered species. It also considers the broader inter-catchment risks provided through the River Health Strategy, Native Vegetation Plan and the Salinity Plan. Downstream or The risk associated with losing Rare/Unlikely: Failure to ensure The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has a Collateral Impacts - or damaging biodiversity or these risks are considered could strong risk management process Salinity biodiversity habitat - aquatic or threaten rare or endangered in place. This includes, on the terrestrial - by onground works species or place a species in an micro-level, consideration of being undertaken by Glenelg endangered category. Likewise, it projects using the Biodiversity Hopkins CMA to address salinity could detrimentally effect the Risk Management Protocols. This issues. values of local infrastructure ensures that all projects are (e.g. water supply) and any considered using all available negative outcome would have data available - e.g. biodiversity substantial detrimental effects mapping of the Dundas on the perceived management Tablelands and State Govt info ability of the Glenelg Hopkins on protected & endangered CMA through all partnership species. It also considers the levels - community and broader inter-catchment risks government. provided through the River Health Strategy, Native Vegetation Plan and the Salinity Plan.

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8.0 ACTION PLAN TABLE

Table 17 provides an overview of proposed regional management actions to meet the goals of this strategy. In some cases, the actions from other plans are identified in detail. Where actions are provided, detailed information on roles and responsibilities should be sought in the individual plan. In other cases where a vast number of actions are proposed, such as in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Communications Plan, the South West Sustainability Blueprint,the Glenelg Hopkins CMA River Health Strategy and the South West Victoria Coastal Action8 Plan, the reader should refer to the individual plan identified.

Key to Table - Targets A1 = An improvement in regional sustainability as A4 = An improvement in soil health as measured reflected in key indicators by 2050. by key indicators by 2050. A2 = No net decline and, where appropriate, an A5 = By 2050, there will be a net decline in increase in native regional biodiversity as impacts of pest plant and animal infestation measured through key indicators by 2050. on private and public land and in aquatic environments as measured by key indicators. A3 = A net increase in water quality across the region and an equitable allocation of water A6 = As measured through key indicators, the between environmental, social and economic coastal areas of the catchment in 2050 will uses by 2050 as measured by key indicators. retain their unique flora and fauna and places of natural beauty while supporting a range of diverse and sustainable industries.

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8.0 ACTION PLAN TABLE

Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed Regional Sustainability RMAT 1 Increase management options available to 5.1.2 A1 Ongoing DPI/DSE, Regional producers through supporting research into more Glenelg Hopkins Stakeholders sustainable agricultural practices. CMA, Research Organisations, Industry RMAT 2 Reduce impact of agricultural production on 5.1.2 All 2005 DPI/DSE, Industry, catchment health through the development of a co- Glenelg Hopkins Landholders ordinated regional EMS project. CMA RMAT 3 Increase regional capacity to adopt EMS through 5.1.2 All 2005 DPI/DSE, Media facilitating regional implementation of accredited EMS Glenelg Hopkins training courses. CMA, Education Sector RMAT 4 Undertake research to determine the impact of 5.1.2 All Ongoing DPI/DSE, Media current farming practices on catchment health and Glenelg Hopkins disseminate these to the community. CMA, Research Organisations RMAT 5 Investigate regional branding and accreditation 5.1.2 A1 2007 SWSP programs to capture potential economic benefits of cleaner production. RMAT 6 Provide support for EMS adoption through 5.1.2 All 2007 DPI/DSE, Local investigating the feasibility of rating incentives for Glenelg Hopkins Government participating producers. CMA RMAT 7 Develop industry-specific best practice EMS 5.1.2 All 2005 DPI/DSE Industry guidelines for incorporation into whole-farm planning. RMAT 8 Build capacity across the farming sector and 5.1.2 All Ongoing DPI/DSE, Regional through Landcare to incorporate more sustainable practices Glenelg Hopkins Stakeholders into agricultural production. CMA, Industry, Landcare Network RMAT 9 Support sustainable development of the abalone 5.1.3 A1, A2 Ongoing DPI/DSE Industry resource through facilitating regional implementation of the Abalone Fishery Management Plan. RMAT 10 Support sustainable development of the eel 5.1.3 A1, A2 Ongoing DPI/DSE Industry resource through facilitating regional implementation of the Eel Fishery Management Plan. RMAT 11 Support sustainable development of the rock 5.1.3 A1, A2 Ongoing DPI/DSE Industry lobster resource through finalising and implementing the Victorian Southern Rock Lobster Management Plan. RMAT 12 Support sustainable development of regional 5.1.3 A1, A2 Ongoing DPI/DSE Industry fisheries resources through preparing the Glenelg Hopkins Regional Fisheries Management Plan. RMAT 13 Facilitate regional implementation of the Victorian 5.1.3 A1 Ongoing DPI/DSE, Regional 8 Aquaculture Strategy. Glenelg Hopkins Stakeholders CMA, Industry RMAT 14 Reduce the impact of the dairy industry on the 5.1.4 All Ongoing West Vic Dairy DPI/DSE, Glenelg health of the catchment through facilitating Hopkins CMA, implementation of key actions from the Western Victoria Industry, Dairy Industry Natural Resource Plan. Landholders RMAT 15 Support the sustainable development of regional 5.1.4 A1 Ongoing Southern Glenelg horticultural industries through facilitating implementation Farming Systems, Hopkins CMA, of key actions from the South West Victoria Horticulture Central DPI/DSE Strategy. Highlands Industry, Integrated Landholders Production Systems

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Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed RMAT 16 Deliver a range of environmental services through 5.1.4 A1 Ongoing DPI/DSE Glenelg Hopkins facilitating and expanding regional implementation of the CMA, Local West RFA Sawlog Farming Project. Councils, Landholders RMAT 17 Establish partnerships with plantation companies 5.1.4 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins to harness forestry expertise. CMA, DPI/DSE, Industry, Landcare RMAT 18 Continue development and communication of land 5.1.4 A1, A2, A4 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Local capability information to guide land-use change decisions. CMA, DPI/DSE Government, Industry, Landholders RMAT 19 Build partnerships between natural resource and 5.1.5 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins tourism sectors to highlight and add value to environmental CMA, Tourism protection and restoration measures. Sector RMAT 20 Build regional capacity to implement change 5.1.6 All 2007 DPI/DSE, through heightening awareness of relevant sustainability Glenelg Hopkins related information. CMA RMAT 21 Support regional sustainability initiatives through 5.1.7 All 2007 SWSP Regional facilitating implementation of key actions from the South Stakeholders West Sustainability Blueprint. Biodiversity RMAT 22 Move toward achievement of biodiversity 5.2.1 A2 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Local aspirational target by building regional capacity through CMA, DPI/DSE Government, training and education programs to increase awareness of Education regional biodiversity assets, values and threats. Sector, Environmental Groups RMAT 23 Address potential climate change threats to 5.2.1 A2 2007 Glenelg Hopkins DPI/DSE biodiversity through investigation and preparation of an CMA appropriate strategic response. RMAT 24 Protect important biodiversity values found in the 5.2.1 A2 Ongoing Parks Vic parks network through the implementation of park management plans. RMAT 25 Achieve native vegetation resource condition 5.2.1 A2 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Parks Vic, targets through building partnerships with private CMA, DPI/DSE, Local landholders to preserve rare EVCs. Landholders Government RMAT 26 Achieve native vegetation resource condition 5.2.2 A2 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Regional targets through implementing key actions from the Glenelg CMA, DPI/DSE, Stakeholders Hopkins CMA Native Vegetation Plan. Key actions listed Local under this plan include: Government • Implement native vegetation controls • Develop environmental overlays • Community education • Grassland and wetland protection • Incentive development • Research • Planning for parks, reserves and corridors.

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8.0 ACTION PLAN TABLE

Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed RMAT 27 Achieve native vegetation resource condition 5.2.2 A2 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Regional targets through facilitating regional implementation of the CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders Bushcare program. RMAT 28 Achieve native vegetation resource condition 5.2.2 A2 2007 VicRoads, Local DPI/DSE, targets through supporting the development and Government Glenelg Hopkins implementation of Roadside Vegetation Plans. CMA RMAT 29 Achieve native vegetation resource condition 5.2.2 A2 Ongoing Trust for Nature DPI/DSE, Glenelg targets through the development of conservation covenants Hopkins CMA, to protect areas of high value remnant vegetation. Local Government, Landholders RMAT 30 Investigate the feasibility of regional 5.2.2 A2 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Parks Vic implementation of the Bush Tender process to achieve Hopkins CMA native vegetation resource condition targets. RMAT 31 Protect internationally significant wetlands 5.2.2 A2 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Local through implementation of the Western District Lakes Hopkins CMA Government Ramsar Site Strategic Management Plan. Landholders RMAT 32 Investigate joint projects with Corangamite CMA 5.2.2 A2 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Parks Vic, to protect significant wetlands. CMA, CCMA DPI/DSE RMAT 33 Achieve a variety of biodiversity and water quality 5.2.2 All 2005 Glenelg Hopkins Regional targets through development of a Regional Wetland Action CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders Plan. RMAT 34 Contribute to meeting biodiversity aspirational 5.2.3 A2 Ongoing DPI/DSE Regional target through reviewing, refining and implementing Stakeholders relevant Flora and Fauna Guarantee Action Statements. RMAT 35 Contribute to meeting biodiversity aspirational 5.2.3 A2 2007 DPI/DSE target through completing and implementing Action Statements and Recovery Plans for listed threatened species. RMAT 36 Reduce threats to biodiversity assets through 5.2.3 All Ongoing DPI/DSE, Glenelg developing regional Threat Abatement Plans. Hopkins CMA RMAT 37 Facilitate regional implementation of Victoria’s 5.2.3 A2 2005 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Biodiversity Strategy and complete associated Bioregion Parks Vic Hopkins CMA Action Plans. RMAT 38 Identify regional biodiversity research priorities 5.2.3 A2 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Regional and undertake appropriate research. CMA, DPI/DSE, Stakeholders Research Organisations RMAT 39 Build capacity and knowledge of industry and 5.2.3 A2 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Industry, local government to plan and protect biodiversity, CMA, DPI/DSE Local particularly threatened species and critical habitat. Government RMAT 40 Reduce threats to biodiversity asset through 5.2.3 A2 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Regional implementing biodiversity protocols. CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders RMAT 41 Build partnerships with conservation groups, 5.2.3 A2 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins recovery teams, universities and museums to help preserve CMA, DPI/DSE, biodiversity. Parks Vic, Conservation Groups, Research Organisations

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Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed Waterway Health and Water Quality RMAT 42 Achieve statewide surface water quality targets 5.3.2 A3 Ongoing EPA, Glenelg Regional through facilitating regional implementation of SEPP Hopkins CMA, Stakeholders (Waters of Victoria). DPI/DSE RMAT 43 Achieve river health resource condition targets 5.3.3 A2, A3 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Regional through implementing key actions from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Stakeholders CMA River Health Strategy. The strategy identifies priority sub-catchments, determines the key threats to these and suggests an integrated plan of action to address these. For example, The Glenelg River Grampians Headwaters is considered a priority sub-catchment. The major threats to this area are algal blooms, European Carp, other predator fish, bed erosion, rabbits, instream barriers and loss of instream habitat. Therefore the key actions within this sub- catchment are: • Implement dryland agriculture, forests, parks and public lands actions from the Nutrient Management Plan • Develop a European Carp management strategy • Undertake investigation into the impacts of predator fish on significant fauna, stream diversity and fishing values • Investigate the threat of bed erosion • Investigate and remove redundant fish barriers or install fishways • Further investigate loss of instream habitat. RMAT 44 Achieve nutrient level resource condition targets 5.3.4 A1, A2, A3 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Regional through implementing key actions from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Stakeholder CMA Nutrient Management Plan. Key actions listed under his plan include: • Implement gully control measures • Implement bank stabilisation • Ensure adoption of waste management practices on farms • Apply extension practices • Prepare stormwater management plans • Assess needs for sewering of small towns • Undertake research. RMAT 45 Achieve nutrient level resource condition targets 5.3.4 A2, A3 2007 Local DPI/DSE, Glenelg through implementing Urban Stormwater Plans. Government Hopkins CMA, EPA RMAT 46 Research and develop efficient retention systems, 5.3.4 A1, A3 2007 Industry, West Landholders efficient reuse systems and alternative uses and markets for Vic Dairy, dairy effluent to help meet nutrient level resource condition Glenelg Hopkins targets. CMA, DPI/DSE RMAT 47 Improve regional drainage outcomes through 5.3.5 A3 2007 and Glenelg Hopkins Local implementing key actions from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Ongoing CMA Government, Rural Drainage Strategy. DPI/DSE, Landholders RMAT 48 Improve floodplain outcomes through 5.3.5 A3 2007 and Glenelg Hopkins Local implementing key actions from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Ongoing CMA Government, Regional Floodplain Management Strategy. DPI/DSE, Landholders RMAT 49 Protect groundwater assets through facilitating 5.3.6 A3 Ongoing EPA, DPI/DSE, Regional regional implementation of SEPP (Groundwaters of Victoria). Glenelg Hopkins Stakeholders CMA, SRW RMAT 50 Provide for equitable water sharing by developing 5.3.6 A3 2007 SRW Glenelg Hopkins and implementing Streamflow Management Plans for CMA, DPI/DSE priority streams.

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8.0 ACTION PLAN TABLE

Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed RMAT 51 Investigate alternative management regimes for 5.3.6 A3 2007 SRW Glenelg streams not suitable for SMP development. Hopkins CMA, DPI/DSE RMAT 52 Provide for equitable water sharing by facilitating 5.3.6 A3 Ongoing SRW Glenelg regional implementation of the Farm Dams Act. Hopkins CMA, DPI/DSE RMAT 53 Protect threatened groundwater assets by 5.3.6 A3 Ongoing SRW Glenelg developing Groundwater Management Plans for priority Hopkins CMA, aquifers of most concern. DPI/DSE RMAT 54 Increase water use efficiency by implementing 5.3.6 A1, A3 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Industry, Water for Growth Initiative. CMA, DPI/DSE Water Authorities, Regional Stakeholders RMAT 55 Continue investigation and implementation of 5.3.6 A1, A3 2007 Water Regional wastewater re-use options. Authorities Stakeholders RMAT 56 Build community capacity by continuing regional 5.3.6 A3 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Education implementation and development of the Waterwatch CMA, DPI/DSE Sector, Regional program. Stakeholders Soil Decline and Salinity RMAT 57 Build regional capacity to manage soil issues 5.4.2 A4 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Local through heightening awareness and increasing use of land CMA, DPI/DSE Government degradation analysis. RMAT 58 Meet soil and salinity aspirational targets through 5.4.2 A4 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins continuing to identify and manage soil erosion sites. CMA, DPI/DSE, Local Government, Landholders RMAT 59 Investigate the long-term impacts of agricultural 5.4.2 A4 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg industries on soil, chemical, physical and biological fertility. Hopkins CMA, Research Organisations RMAT 60 Increase catchment community knowledge of soil 5.4.2 A4 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Regional acidification issues. Hopkins CMA Stakeholders RMAT 61 Undertake research into regional soil acidification 5.4.2 A4 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg remediation measures. Hopkins CMA, Research Organisations RMAT 62 Undertake investigation into regional soil sodicity 5.4.2 A4 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Regional issues. Hopkins CMA, Stakeholders Research Organisations RMAT 63 Continue identification of Regional Coastal Acid 5.4.2 A4 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Industry Sulphate Soils and implement management program. Hopkins CMA, Local Government RMAT 64 Meet salinity resource condition targets through 5.4.3 A4 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Regional implementing key actions from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders Salinity Plan. Key actions listed in this plan include: RMAT 65 Contribute to long term meeting of soil and 5.4.3 A4 2005 Glenelg Hopkins DPI/DSE, salinity aspirational targets through development of a CMA, Regional regional Soils Action Plan. Stakeholders

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Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed Pest Plants and Animals RMAT 66 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants and 5.5.2 A5 Ongoing DPI/DSE, Glenelg animals through facilitating regional implementation of the Hopkins CMA CALP Act. RMAT 67 Build community capacity through increasing 5.5.2 A5 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Industry community awareness of the need to treat causes rather Hopkins CMA than symptoms of pest plant infestations. RMAT 68 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants and 5.5.3 A2 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg Regional animals through facilitating regional implementation of Hopkins CMA Stakeholders Commonwealth and State pest management programs. RMAT 69 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants through 5.5.3 A2, A5 2005 Glenelg Hopkins Regional facilitating implementation of key actions from the Glenelg CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan. Key actions listed within this plan include: • Inform all stakeholders of the economic, social and environmental cost of weeds and how to reduce these • Prevent the early development and spread of new weeds • Achieve a significant reduction in the impact of existing weeds • Establish effective partnerships • Ensure early detection and rapid response to new weed problems. RMAT 70 Build community capacity through supporting 5.5.3 A2, A5 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Industry, community-based weed management activities. CMA, DPI/DSE Regional Stakeholders RMAT 71 Support stock feed industry quality assurance 5.5.3 A5 Ongoing Industry DPI/DSE, Glenelg programs. Hopkins CMA RMAT 72 Facilitate regional implementation of the Victorian 5.5.3 A5 2007 WCB DPI/DSE Coastal Strategy related to exotic marine organisms. RMAT 73 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants through 5.5.3 A5 2005 Glenelg Hopkins facilitating development of regional Aquatic Pest Plant CMA Strategy. RMAT 74 Implement regional European Carp investigation 5.5.3 A5 2005 Glenelg Hopkins Regional and control program. CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders RMAT 75 Meet aspirational targets for pest animals through 5.5.3 A5 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Regional facilitating development and implementation of predator CMA, DPI/DSE, Stakeholders control measures. Landholders RMAT 76 Meet rabbit resource condition targets through 5.5.3 A2, A5 2005 Glenelg Hopkins Landholders, implementing the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Rabbit Action Plan. CMA, DPI/DSE Local Key actions listed under this plan include: Government • Review and update extension materials • Provide technical advice and extension activities • Develop guidelines • Benchmark attitudes • Implement compliance program • Review priorities. RMAT 77 Investigate gaps in pest plant and animal 5.5.3 A5 2005 Glenelg Hopkins management strategic planning. CMA, DPI/DSE RMAT 78 Meet aspirational targets for pest plants and 5.5.3 A5 2005 Glenelg Hopkins animals through reviewing and updating existing pest plant CMA, DPI/DSE and animal strategies. RMAT 79 Work closely with and support research providers 5.5.3 A5 Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins to develop new control measures. CMA, DPI/DSE, Research Organisations

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8.0 ACTION PLAN TABLE

Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed Coastal Areas RMAT 80 Meet aspirational target for coastal areas through 5.6.1 A6 2007 and Western Coastal Glenelg Hopkins facilitating regional implementation of the Victorian Coastal Ongoing Board CMA, DPI/DSE, Strategy. Local Government and other Regional Stakeholders RMAT 81 Build and sustain partnerships and a cooperative 5.6.2 A6 2007 and WCB, Local DPI/DSE, approach to encourage the implementation, evaluation and Ongoing Government Glenelg Hopkins review the Warrnambool, Moyne and Glenelg Coastal CMA, Action Plans. Coordinate and focus resources to support the Landholders implementation of actions identified in these plans. RMAT 82 Meet aspirational target for coastal areas through 5.6.2 A6 2007 and WCB DPI/DSE, implementing, evaluating and reviewing the South West Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Victoria Regional Coastal Action Plan. CMA RMAT 83 Meet aspirational target for coastal areas through 5.6.2 A6 2007 WCB Parks Vic, developing and implementing individual Estuary DPI/DSE, Glenelg Management Plans in accordance with the South West Hopkins CMA Estuaries Coastal Action Plan. RMAT 84 Facilitate ongoing regional implementation and 5.6.2 A6 Ongoing WCB, DPI/DSE, Local project development in line with the Coast Action Coastcare Glenelg Hopkins Government program. CMA and other Regional Stakeholders Strategic Planning RMAT 85 Work closely with State and Federal organisations 6.1.1 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Regional to implement relevant plans and strategies. CMA Stakeholders RMAT 86 Continue development of regional services 6.1.1 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins agreement between the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and DPI/DSE. CMA, DPI/DSE RMAT 87 Raise awareness among organisations and the 6.1.1 All 2005 Glenelg Hopkins Local community of planning support capacities. CMA, DPI/DSE Government and other Regional Stakeholders RMAT 88 Develop a comprehensive asset register. Determine 6.1.2 All 2006 Glenelg Hopkins DPI/DSE, ‘Triple Bottom Line’ value of assets on a sub-catchment CMA Local basis, particularly the value of ecosystem services, and relay Government, these to the community. Regional Stakeholders RMAT 89 Develop regional resource condition targets and 6.1.2 All 2006 Glenelg Hopkins DPI/DSE, appropriate indicators. CMA Other Regional Stakeholders RMAT 90 Meet aspirational targets through integrating the 6.1.3 All 2004 Glenelg Hopkins RCS and Action Plans with Municipal Strategic Statements. CMA, Local Government RMAT 91 Meet aspirational targets through supporting 6.1.3 All 2006 Glenelg Hopkins councils to develop appropriate planning overlays. CMA, DPI/DSE, Local Government RMAT 92 Meet aspirational targets through supporting 6.1.3 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins councils to develop and implement environmental CMA, DPI/DSE, strategies. Local Government RMAT 93 Raise awareness of, and undertake research into, 6.1.4 All Ongoing DPI/DSE, Glenelg identified research priorities. Hopkins CMA, Research Organisations

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Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed RMAT 94 Implement best practice accounting, reporting and 6.1.4 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins evaluation processes. CMA RMAT 95 Build regional capacity to undertake scenario 6.1.4 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Research planning, catchment modeling and project planning. CMA, DPI/DSE Organisations RMAT 96 Develop a Glenelg Hopkins CMA Information 6.1.4 All 2005 Glenelg Hopkins Management Strategy. CMA Partnerships RMAT 97 Meet aspirational targets through continued 6.2.1 All 2007 and Glenelg Hopkins partnership development and refinement with DPI/DSE, EPA, Ongoing CMA, DPI/DSE, coastal and water authorities. EPA, WCB, Water Authorities RMAT 98 Meet aspirational targets for regional 6.2.1 All Ongoing SWSP Regional sustainability through continued support for the South Stakeholders West Sustainability Partnership. RMAT 99 Support Landcare partnership through 6.2.2 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins DPI/DSE, implementation of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Regional CMA Other Regional Landcare Strategy. Key actions listed under this plan Stakeholders include: • Establish Regional Landcare Facilitator positions • Provide support and professional development opportunities for Landcare staff and members • Develop Landcare investment plan and group action plans • Develop Landcare technical manual • Produce Landcare newsletter RMAT 100 Build regional capacity through development of 6.2.2 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins partnerships and support mechanisms for other CMA, DPI/DSE, environmental groups. Local Government, Industry RMAT 101 Build regional capacity through further 6.2.3 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins development of local government partnership CMA, DPI/DSE, arrangements. Local Government RMAT 102 Increase industry involvement through further 6.2.4 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins development of industry partnership arrangements. CMA, DPI/DSE, Industry RMAT 103 Increase indigenous community involvement 6.2.5 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins through further development of indigenous communities CMA, DPI/DSE, partnership arrangements. Parks Vic, Indigenous Communities RMAT 104 Increase education sector involvement through 6.2.6 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins further development of educational organisation CMA, DPI/DSE, partnership arrangements. Education Sector Onground Works RMAT 105 Protect sites of cultural heritage through 6.3.1 2007 Glenelg Hopkins development of protocols to protect sites and places of CMA, DPI/DSE, Aboriginal heritage. Indigenous Communities RMAT 106 Build regional capacity through instituting a 6.3.2 All 2007 Glenelg DPI/DSE, program to increase volunteer participation rates. Hopkins CMA Local Government, Industry, Other Regional Stakeholders

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8.0 ACTION PLAN TABLE

Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed RMAT 107 Build regional capacity through instituting a 6.3.3 All 2007 EPA DPI/DSE, Glenelg program to raise landholder awareness of legislative Hopkins CMA requirements. RMAT 108 Meet aspirational targets through instituting a 6.3.3 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins program to raise landholder awareness of degrading CMA, DPI/DSE, processes and remediation options. Local Government, Landholders RMAT 109 Raise community and landholder awareness of 6.3.3 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins NRTE, Local incentive programs. CMA Government RMAT 110 Investigate funding and partnership 6.3.4 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins arrangements required to further develop private natural CMA, DPI/DSE resource industry. RMAT 111 Ensure licensing frameworks which govern 6.3.4 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins onground works meet best practice. CMA, DPI/DSE, Local Government Community Engagement and Capacity Building RMAT 112 Ensure community engagement processes reflect 6.4.1 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins DPI/DSE, different issues, knowledge bases and levels of awareness CMA Local across catchment communities. Government RMAT 113 Develop ‘icon’ projects based around volcanic 6.4.1 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins DPI/DSE, cones and wetlands. CMA Landholders, Other Regional Stakeholders RMAT 114 Raise community awareness of issues and 6.4.1 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Industry, options, compliance requirements and actions required to CMA, DPI/DSE, Other Regional achieve a healthier catchment. EPA, Local Stakeholders Government RMAT 115 Develop best practice community engagement 6.4.1 All 2007 DPI/DSE, Glenelg processes. Hopkins CMA RMAT 116 Undertake investigation into training 6.4.2 All 2005 Glenelg Hopkins requirements across the region. CMA, Research Organisations RMAT 117 Build regional capacity through developing 6.4.2 All 2007 and Glenelg Hopkins flexible regional training opportunities and courses Ongoing CMA, DPI/DSE, consistent with national approaches. Education Sector RMAT 118 Increase community awareness by making Health 6.4.3 All 2007 and Glenelg Hopkins of the Catchment Report and local government Ongoing CMA, Local environmental reporting available to the community in a Government variety of formats. RMAT 119 Ensure ongoing monitoring and evaluation 6.4.3 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins reports are made available across the catchment. CMA, DPI/DSE, EPA RMAT 120 Establish electronic guide of natural resource 6.4.3 All 2006 Glenelg Hopkins management resources. CMA RMAT 121 Continue existing information communication 6.4.3 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins processes. CMA, DPI/DSE, EPA, Local Government, Other Regional Stakeholders

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Table 17 ~ Action Plan Table, continued

Regional Management Action Target Section Aspiration Timeframe Lead Support in RCS Target Organisation Organisation Addressed RMAT 122 Raise profile of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board 6.4.4 All 2005 Glenelg Hopkins Media and Implementation Committees (IC). CMA RMAT 123 Establish mechanisms, procedures and policies to 6.4.4 All 2005 Glenelg Hopkins ensure the Board and IC members report back to their CMA constituents and carry the messages of their constituents into the planning process. RMAT 124 Continue community consultation process in the 6.4.4 All 2007 and Glenelg Hopkins development of endorsed strategies. Ongoing CMA RMAT 125 Meet communication targets through 6.4.5 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Regional implementing the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Communications CMA Stakeholders Plan. Key actions identified in this plan recognise the need to: • Effectively communicate the role of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA • Effectively communicate with NRM partners • Effectively communicate with organisations and groups involved in NRM • Effectively communicate NRM issues with catchment communities • Research and review information needs for effective communication. RMAT 126 Update the Land and Water Management 6.4.5 All 2004 Glenelg Hopkins Contacts booklet. CMA, DPI/DSE RMAT 127 Produce compendium of funding resources 6.4.5 All 2005 Glenelg Hopkins available and provide this to the community and agencies. CMA RMAT 128 Facilitate regional implementation of Federal and 6.4.5 All 2006 Glenelg Hopkins Regional State Capacity Building Strategies through a Glenelg CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders Hopkins CMA regional initiative. Monitoring Evaluation and Reporting RMAT 129 Finalise and implement a Glenelg Hopkins CMA 6.5.1 All 2004 Glenelg Hopkins EPA monitoring plan and ensure compliance with State-wide CMA, DPI/DSE review. RMAT 130 Build community capacity by continuing support 6.5.2 All 2007 Glenelg Hopkins Industry, for community-based monitoring activities. CMA, DPI/DSE, Landholders, EPA Other Regional Stakeholders RMAT 131 Seek to capture monitoring information from 6.5.2 All 2007 and Glenelg Hopkins Other Regional groups such as Field Naturalists. Ongoing CMA, DPI/DSE, Stakeholders Environmental Groups RMAT 132 Build regional knowledge base by investigating 6.5.3 All 2005and Glenelg Hopkins Other Regional assumptions underlying strategic planning processes. Ongoing CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders, Research Organisations RMAT 133 Meet objectives of adaptive management by 6.5.3 All Ongoing Regional incorporating knowledge gained through monitoring and Stakeholders evaluation into decision-making process. RMAT 134 Undertake strategic evaluation of programs based 6.5.3 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins on core evaluation strategy currently being developed by CMA, DPI/DSE the State and Commonwealth. RMAT 135 Report outcomes of regional investment, trends 6.5.4 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins in catchment health and evaluation of programs in the CMA Glenelg Hopkins CMA Annual Report and through other communications devices. RMAT 136 Report to investors as required. 6.5.4 All Ongoing Glenelg Hopkins Regional CMA, DPI/DSE Stakeholders RMAT 137 Make monitoring and evaluation results available 6.5.4 All 2004 and Glenelg Hopkins through the Glenelg Hopkins CMA website. Ongoing CMA

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APPENDIX 1 ~ THE BOARD AND IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEES OF THE GLENELG HOPKINS CMA

Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board

Name Profile Mick Murphy (Chairman) Former Shire Engineer, former South West Water Authority Board Member, Director of the Victorian Country Racing Council, Life Governor of Mortlake and District Hospital, former Mayor and Councilor of Moyne Shire. Peter Dark Wool producer, past president Mirranatwa Landcare Group, past president Hamilton District Council VFF, CFA captain. Cicely Fenton Grazier and conservationist, past president Branxholme Progress Association, foundation member Smokey River Land Management Group. Hilary Turner Primary producer and conservationist, foundation member of Australian Conservation Foundation, member of various other conservation groups. Lynn Murrell Farmer-nurseryman, former school administrator, current Chair of the Western Coastal Board, former member of Greening Australia, former Mayor of Glenelg Shire Council, Portland Water Board Member, Member of Victorian Coastal Council, Member of Premier’s Victorian Economic, Environmental and Social Advisory Council. Ian Ross Farm manager, President Telangutuk Landcare group, member of various community and sporting groups. Susan Mudford Resource manager, 25 years farming experience, 10 years community and business development. Brendan Roughead DPI/DSE representative Tracey Delbridge Eco-tourism operator, 6 years experience in catchment management and education, involved in Greening Australia, Landcare and Waterwatch. Patrick Kempton Water authorities, local government, business management.

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APPENDIX

Waterways Implementation Committee Members

Name Representing Kevin Drinkell (Chair) Community Bill Sharp Community Greg Bell DPI/DSE John Anderson Community John Fyfe Community John Harlock Community John Sherwood Deakin University Kevin Safe Glenelg Region Water Authority Neil Hamer Pyrenees Shire Council Paul Battista Community Peter Reeve Warrnambool City Council Ray Gilby DPI/DSE

Land and Biodiversity Implementation Committee Members

Name Representing Laurie Norman (Chair) Community Dennis Hilder Community Tim Leeming Community James Kirkpatrick Community Ross Garton Community Debbie Shea Community Keith Davis Community Glen Whipp Community Chris Price Community Andy Govanstone DPI/DSE Tony Lovick DPI/DSE Mike Wagg DPI/DSE Geoff Saul Director, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Hamilton

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APPENDIX 2 ~ HOW THIS STRATEGY WAS DEVELOPED

REVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS RCS

Preparing this draft of the RCS for community consultation has been an enormous and complicated task. It began with a careful evaluation of the initial RCS prepared in 1997. Key community and stakeholder contacts were consulted and a careful analysis of the document undertaken to highlight previous weaknesses that needed addressing and to begin to set new directions. A copy of the review is available from the Glenelg Hopkins CMA on request. The broad actions specified in the initial strategy allowed a degree of freedom and flexibility for resource managers, which should be maintained. This is in keeping with the role of the RCS as an overarching document for the region. Narrowly prescriptive actions can be specified in other associated plans. The RCS review suggested that in the time since the initial strategy was completed, the vision of natural resource management had developed to include a more integrated approach to the sustainable development of land and water management and that this change must be reflected in the new strategy. Objectives have broadened to include more collaboration, partnerships and pro-active rather than reactive actions. The initial strategy included little benchmarking, making it difficult to ascertain whether targets were being met. The review further suggested that the monitoring of outcomes had been poor and required attention in the revised RCS.

The original RCS called for the completion of a variety of action plans - e.g. weeds, nutrients and native vegetation. The construction of these plans has resulted in many positive outcomes. Originally weeds were managed according to the ‘loudest cries’. Through completion of a mapping process and construction of an action plan, there has been a shift in the prioritisation of weeds in the region. The Rabbit Action Plan has helped change attitudes toward rabbit management, with warrens now being targeted and destroyed in conjunction with a baiting program. Mapping of rabbit infestations also has allowed prioritisation of works and a field inspection and advisory service has been established. The following information taken from the RCS review provides a summary of the achievements against actions in the original RCS.

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Table 18 ~ Action Achievements in the Original Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy

Key 3 Completed 2 Partially Completed 1 Not Completed * High Priority Action

Soil Management Soil Conservation - Protect soil resources from soil erosion and waterways from sediment discharge Actions Achievements Review of regional soil erosion causes and develop a sediment management plan 1

Continue to implement high priority soils conservation works under the LPIS scheme in accordance with sediment management plan priorities 1

Salinity Management (Salt Assault) - Protect land and waterways from rising saline water tables and saline run-off

Actions Achievements * Review and modify current strategy in light of recent research, proposed incentives, regulations and other concurrent actions 3 * Implement and monitor current and modified programs of management 3

Soil Structure - Long-term sustainability of agricultural production through the protection of soil structure and fertility

Actions Achievements Continue research into soil structure issues 2 Extension programs to raise awareness of issues and initiate implementation of research recommendations 3

Pest Plant and Animal Pest Plant Management - Reduce pest plant numbers and diversity to levels that can be maintained within the resources of the region

Actions Achievements * Identify and map existing pest plant infestations through the region 3 * Develop an integrated pest plant program 3 Implement and monitor integrated pest plant management program 3

Pest Animal Management - Reduce pest animal number and diversity to levels that can be maintained within the resources of the region

Actions Achievements * Map location and estimate number of pest animal population 3 * Develop integrated pest animal program 3 * Implement and monitor an integrated pest animal management program (with particular emphasis on rabbit, fox and feral cat control) 3 (rabbit)

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Waterways and Water Resources Water Quality Management (Nutrients) - Maintain water quality standards within agreed parameters for the maintenance of biological processes, biodiversity and consumption needs

Actions Achievements * Prepare catchment-based water quality (nutrient) management strategies 3 * Implement key activities and works to reduce nutrient loads and impacts in waterways and riparian environments 3

Water Quantity Strategy (Flows) - Provide for the development and implementation of an equitable balance in flow volumes and diversity for the maintenance of biological systems, geomorphic regimes, features and consumption needs

Actions Achievements Develop comprehensive water allocations for major streams in the Glenelg, Hopkins and Portland Coast Basins 2 (Glenelg) Develop environment and stream flow management plans for priority rivers 2 Increase environmental flow in the Glenelg River 1

Waterway Management - Provide an equitable balance between protection of public and private assets and the protection of biological and geomorphic regimes

Actions Achievements * Establish a working structure for waterway and drainage management 3 * Implement waterway management programs, including relevant research, monitoring and education 2 Develop waterway management program for Portland Coast Basin 1

Drainage Management - Provide for the maintenance, enhancement and protection of important wetlands, improvement of water quality and the improvement and maintenance of agricultural productivity through planned drainage management

Actions Achievements * Establish a working structure for waterway and drainage management 1 Develop agreed drainage management plans and schedules 1 * Implement drainage management program, including research, riparian vegetation and wetland protection/creation 1

Flood and Floodplain Management - Reduce the risk and consequence of flood damage to public and private assets through the region

Actions Achievements Establish regional floodplain management role 3 Create and update regional flood mapping and incorporate into municipal planning schemes 2 Develop flood plain management, flood warning and flood monitoring strategies 2 Implement ongoing flood level management 1

Ground Water Management - Maintain and improve the availability and condition of groundwater resources of the region Actions Achievements Develop regional groundwater quality strategy 1 Implement groundwater quality strategy 1 Develop groundwater management plan 1

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Flora and Fauna Management Native Flora Protection and Retention - Provide for the protection and retention of remnant vegetation communities Actions Achievements * Assess remnant vegetation communities at greatest risk and consequence of loss 3 * Develop programs to protect remnant vegetation on a region-wide scale 3 * Develop management plans and education to protect and enhance communities, including riparian zones 2 * Implement programs of management 2 Ongoing management of Crown lands, regional, state and national parks 1 (Parks Victoria & DPI/DSE)

Fauna and Habitat Protection and Enhancement Program - Provide for the protection of the region’s indigenous fauna Actions Achievements * Develop integrated action statements for the protection of threatened species and species diversity 3 * Develop and implement an integrated parks, reserves and wildlife corridor system for the region, including all riparian zones. Educate the community on fauna issues 2

Fire Management - Protection of public and private land, including grassland, roadside, coastal and forest ecosystems through balanced fire management programs

Actions Achievements Develop region wildfire management plan focused on key communities, wildlife corridors and infestations likely to be affected by fire management practices 2 Implement ecologically appropriate burning for protection of flora and fauna communities where appropriate 2 Implement alternatives to ploughing or spraying of fire breaks for threatened species 2

Socio-Economic and Sustainable Land Management Economics of Regional Production - Maintain and improve the short and long-term profitability of regional production Actions Achievements Identify opportunities for sustainable and profitable development of land and water resources 3 Develop Quality Assurance (QA) in industry and farm planning program 2 Link the rural adjustment scheme with whole-of-catchment management 1

Quality Food and Fibre Production - Produce world standard food and fibre Actions Achievements Support and develop The Glenelg regional farm forestry and plantation industries 3 Promote adoption of improved QA accreditation and QA awards for the food and timber industries 1 Audit the region’s resources in clean food production and prepare a strategy for their future sustainable development 1

Population Level and Distribution - Maintain sustainable population levels and distribution through the region Actions Achievements Review and monitor sustainable population levels, trends and assess target production for the region 1 Identify detrimental population levels and trends for the region 2

Land Use - Use land for its most appropriate long-term use having regard to its capability, suitability and other potential Actions Achievements Review land capability and suitability maps for the region 3 Develop land capability and suitability maps where necessary 3 Establish guidelines for absentee landholders 1

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Landscape Heritage and Recreation - Protect and enhance landscape, recreational and heritage values Actions Achievements Develop consultation framework to bring Aboriginal issues and knowledge into resource management planning 2 Facilitate implementation of Land Conservation Council findings and review other regional culture, landscape and recreational values and opportunities 2 Incorporate heritage values into resource management planning 2

Waste Management - Improved waste management from urban and rural centres and industry Actions Achievements Develop a regional waste management board 3 Develop a regional waste management strategy 3 Implement the regional waste management strategy 3 Conduct waste management audits 1

One of the major lessons from the initial RCS is that priorities The review highlighted strong support among stakeholders for and outcomes can change quickly and, therefore, the region the approach taken in the original strategy, which set forward and the Glenelg Hopkins CMA must retain the ability to adapt a series of easily identifiable issue-based programs (regional to changing circumstances. Consequently, through increased sustainability, soils, pest plants and animals, water and emphasis on monitoring and evaluation, the adaptive biodiversity) and structural programs aimed at providing an management framework adopted in this strategy seeks to efficient and effective framework for natural resource ensure that actions taken in the region are based on the management. The review emphasised the need to establish precepts of continuous improvement. Acceptance of the measurable targets and improve monitoring and evaluation. It adaptive management approach means that the RCS and also stressed the need for the revised document to provide Glenelg Hopkins CMA are generally adaptive, fluid, evolving continuity and improvement in the management structures and developing. developed through implementation of the initial RCS. Thus, stakeholders wished to see an evolutionary rather than revolutionary document. Successes are starting to be achieved across a range of natural management issues within the existing framework of community and government action, which requires refinement rather than replacement.

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COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board decided the document should be produced in-house rather than by external consultants. There was a strong feeling this would enhance the capacity of the organisation and that organisational knowledge would be retained. As such, a project officer with extensive experience in the catchment was appointed in September, 2001. The project officer had lived and worked in the catchment for 15 years and brought an extensive range of contacts and existing knowledge to the project. The project officer’s first task was to prepare a discussion paper outlining the major requirements of the RCS. A three-day Board workshop in Nelson in November, 2001, resulted in the setting of initial directions. The vision of the Board was refined and a number of objectives and targets established to guide the new strategy. The Board asked that the document reflect its commitment to an integrated catchment approach - i.e: •Decisions regarding natural resources - land, water and other resources - are integrated at the catchment level •Decisions about the environment of the catchment, its economic productivity and its people are integrated • Responsibilities and accountabilities are clearly determined within the catchment • Strategies and action plans for natural resources are developed and implemented in partnership with communities and governments • The mix of mechanisms, including incentives, investments and regulations, are designed and determined for the whole of the catchment •Allocation of natural resources, including water, is determined on a catchment basis • Catchment management delivers regional, state and national outcomes within a system of agreed targets over a long-term period.

Furthermore the Board wished to see a document that reflected its commitment to sustainability and adaptive management. Following the workshop, the discussion paper was refined and used as a starting point for community and stakeholder consultation. A detailed project plan was constructed highlighting major milestones and a Board Working Party established to guide the strategy. Members of the Working Party were Lynn Murrell, Brendan Roughead, Colin Dunkley, Peter Dark, Michael Murphy and Adrian Volders.

Effective community consultation has been a major challenge in preparing the document and associated action plans. The catchment covers more than 2.6 million hectares and is home to approximately 95,000 people. It was decided to undertake a major community benchmarking survey to investigate in depth attitudes toward the natural environment and its management. This survey was most informative in establishing community priorities and has been highly effective in guiding the development of the strategy and the action plans.

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The major findings of the benchmarking survey were: Partnership. Intensive negotiations have occurred with •Water-related issues were a key concern Natural Resources and Environment regarding the content of the strategy across a variety of levels of the management • Overall, there was positive sentiment toward the state of spectrum. Consultation has occurred with other State the local environment and moves to protect it. However, Government departments, such as the Department of the majority believed more should be done Infrastructure, EPA and Parks Victoria. Consultations have • Concern for the environment’ ranked as the third most occurred with various Commonwealth departments. An important aspect of life behind ‘remaining healthy’ and exposure draft of the RCS was released in May, 2002, and sent ‘providing opportunities for children’ to more than 400 people within and outside the catchment to • Salinity was perceived as the greatest threat to the local further the engagement process. A workshop was held early in environment June to develop research priorities with an open invitation •Agricultural practices and pollution were perceived as key extended across the catchment. The profile of the RCS process threats to waterways was highlighted in a number of press releases and articles in •Pest plants and animals also were recognised as key threats newspapers and newsletters. These articles highlighted the • Pollution and erosion were perceived as key threats to the directions established by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board and coast detailed how members of the catchment community could • 72% of people surveyed were willing to participate or had gain further information and provide input. State and Federal previously participated in natural resource activities. strategies, a variety of Glenelg Hopkins CMA strategies and Young people were more inclined to participate in future action plans and other regional plans that underpin this RCS •A quarter of participants were a member of an also have involved extensive stakeholder and community environmental group233. consultation. The relevant plans should be consulted to gain the detail of this consultation. More traditional methods of engagement, such as public meetings, have failed in the past. As such, additional ESTABLISHING KEY REGIONAL CHALLENGES AND community input was sought through existing groups, such as INTEGRATION TOOLS Landcare, environmental groups and the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Implementation Committees. Close community consultation Early in the development of the RCS it was recognised there has been a feature of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and its would be a need to focus on specific issues and areas in a way operations. Glenelg Hopkins CMA staff were informed at all that gave an integrated outcome and provided a user-friendly stages of the development of the strategy and, through their document. As such, it was determined that a series of key daily inter-actions with the community, were able to provide challenges and tools would be delineated. Four key processes valuable feedback on the RCS. were used to define the key regional challenges and integration tools; Consultation with regional stakeholders representing 1) review of the previous RCS; significant sectors of the catchment community has been 2) Health of the Catchment Report; ongoing and intensive. Delegates from the Glenelg Hopkins 3) analysis of assets and threats; CMA visited local government, indigenous communities, 4) community and stakeholder consultation. industries, water authorities, research and educational Table 19 provides an overview of the rationale for each of the organisations, and presented information and sought feedback areas chosen. at peak body meetings, such as the South West Sustainability

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Table ~ 19 Key Regional Challenges and Integration Tool Rationale

Key Challenge and Areas Addressed Rationale Integration Tool

Regional • Sustainable Agriculture Regional sustainability was a key issue in the original RCS. Sustainability • Sustainable Fisheries Regional management agencies and research institutions are increasingly focusing on regional sustainability. The catchment • Land-use Change description highlights the importance of agriculture, fisheries and • Tourism tourism as economic assets and the ongoing process of land-use • Technological Innovation change. Industry makes use of a large proportion of land within the catchment, therefore addressing the relationship between • The South West Sustainability them and the environment is a key challenge. Community Partnership consultation highlighted concerns regarding agricultural pollution and the over-exploitation of resources. The South West Sustainability Partnership members regard regional sustainability and the implementation of their blueprint as a key issue. Biodiversity • Native vegetation The Health of Catchment Report highlights biodiversity loss over • Regional biodiversity protection the past 200 years. Many rare and threatened species occur within the region. Biodiversity is a significant asset with a range of environmental, economic and social values. State and Federal Governments have highlighted biodiversity as a central element in natural resource management. Stakeholders identified biodiversity as a key issue. Community consultation indicated that knowledge of regional biodiversity was low. Previous RCS highlighted biodiversity as key issue. Waterway Health • Water of Victoria State Community consultation revealed water as key issue. Water is a and Water Quality Environmental Protection Policy key asset threatened by a number of processes. Declining water • River Health Plans quality is a significant threat to a range of economic, environmental and social values. Improving water quality will be • Nutrient Management necessary to protect biodiversity. Water was identified in the • Regional Drainage and Floodplain previous RCS as a key issue. Management • Water Allocation Soil Decline and • Soil Decline The previous RCS identified soil decline and salinity as key issues. Salinity • Salinity Healthy and productive soils are a key asset that supports the regional economy. Salinity is a key threat to a range of assets. Community and stakeholder consultation revealed strong concerns about salinity and declining soil health. Pest Plants and • The Goal of Pest Plant and Animal Pest plants and animals were identified in the previous RCS as the Animals Management highest priority for action. Community and stakeholder • National, State and Regional consultation revealed high levels of ongoing concern. Pest plants Action Plans and animals threaten significant assets and cost the economy millions of dollars annually. Coastal Areas • South West Regional Coastal Coastal areas have been designated by the State and Federal Action Plan Governments as a priority. Within the region, the majority of the • Estuaries Action Plan population live near the coast. The coast is a significant asset and underpins a variety of economic, environmental and social systems. The coastal area faces a variety of threats. Coastal areas were not examined in the previous RCS and this was recognised as a weakness. Strategic Planning • Integrated planning across Identified by the Working Party and Board as a key issue. geographic scales Integration of planning and research identified as a key need. • Local Government • Information Resources Regional • Landcare and other Community Partnerships were identified by the Board as a high priority. State Partnerships Partnerships and Federal Governments highlight the importance of • Local Government partnerships. Socio- economic analysis and stakeholder • Industry consultation used to identify partnership development opportunities. • Indigenous Communities • Educational Organisations

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Table ~ 19 Key Regional Challenges and Integration Tool Rationale, continued

Key Challenge and Areas Addressed Rationale Integration Tool

Onground Works • Volunteers Ensuring effectiveness of onground works was identified through • Landholders stakeholder and community consultation as a key issue • Developing a Skilled Labour Force Community • Training Analysis of assets and threats highlights the importance of Engagement and • Information Provision community support and participation in NRM. Capacity building Capacity Building was highlighted by the Board as of central importance. Regional • Empowerment stakeholders, State and Federal Government have highlighted the • Glenelg Hopkins CMA importance of capacity building. Communications Plan Monitoring, • Monitoring Poorly addressed in the previous RCS. Identified by the Board, Evaluation and • Evaluation and Adaptive regional stakeholders and State and Federal Governments as a Reporting Management priority. Central to effective management and adaptability. • Reporting

A summary version of the RCS was presented for community Species Network, Birds Australia, Red Tailed Black Cockatoo consultation from mid October to mid November 2002. A Recovery Team and the various divisions of South West variety of methods, including paid advertising, media releases, DPI/DSE. In the period leading up to formal consultation mailouts, personal invites, presentations and workshops, were various exposure drafts were released meaning that people and used to highlight details of the strategy and provide organisations within the catchment had already had the opportunities for input. A positive response was received from chance for input into the strategy. Only minor changes were the majority of respondents. Many community respondents made to the document following formal consultation, made verbal commentary and suggestions. Formal written reflecting the success of the intensive consultation phase responses were received from 11 individuals, the South West which occurred leading up to the release of the document. Action Group, World Wide Fund for Nature, the Threatened

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APPENDIX 3 ~ DESCRIPTION OF ACTS

Victorian Catchment and Land Protection Act (1994) j) provide formal means for the protection and enhancement of Establishes a framework for the integrated and co-ordinated the environmental qualities of waterways and their in-stream management and protection of catchments. Maintains and uses; k) provide for the protection of catchment conditions. enhances the long-term productivity of land and water resources, establishes monitoring processes and encourages Victorian Coastal Management Act (1995) the participation of landholders, resource managers and other Plans and manages the use of Victoria’s coastal resources on a community members in catchment management. sustainable basis for recreation, conservation, tourism, commerce and other uses. Protects and maintains areas of Commonwealth Environment Protection and environmental significance on the coast, including ecological, Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999) geomorphological, geological, cultural and landscape features. Provides a national framework for protecting matters of Facilitates the development of a range of facilities for national environmental significance and the conservation of improved recreation and tourism, maintains and improves Australia’s biodiversity. coastal water quality, improves public awareness and understanding of the coast and involves the public in coastal Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (1988) planning and management. Provides the main legal framework for the protection of Victoria’s biodiversity, native plants and animals and ecological Victorian Fisheries Act (1995) communities on land and in water, and outlines a major Objectives are to: a) provide for the management, program of State Government and community action. The aim development and use of Victoria’s fisheries, aquaculture is to ensure native flora and fauna survive, flourish and retain industries and associated aquatic biological resources in an their potential for evolutionary development in the wild. efficient, effective and ecologically sustainable manner; b) protect and conserve fisheries resources, habitats and Victorian Planning and Environment Act (1987) ecosystems, including the maintenance of aquatic ecological Establishes a framework for planning the use, development processes and genetic diversity; c) promotes sustainable and protection of land in Victoria in the interests of all commercial fishing and viable aquaculture industries and Victorians - present and future. quality recreational fishing opportunities for the benefit of present and future generations; d) facilitate access to fisheries Victorian Heritage Rivers Act (1992) resources for commercial, recreational, traditional and non- Provides for the protection of public land, particularly parts of consumptive uses; e) promote the welfare of persons engaged rivers and river catchment areas in Victoria that have significant in the commercial fishing industry and facilitate the nature conservation, recreation, scenic or cultural heritage rationalisation and restructuring of the industry; f) encourage attributes and makes related amendments to other Acts. the participation of resource users and the community in fisheries management. Victorian Water Act (1989) Commonwealth Australian Fisheries Management Act (1991) Makes arrangements for the allocation and management of water resources across the State and for the creation of Objectives include: a) implementing efficient and cost- statutory authorities to deliver services. It objectives are: effective fisheries management on behalf of the Commonwealth; b) ensuring the exploitation of fisheries a) to re-state, with amendments, the law relating to water in resources and any related activities are conducted in a manner Victoria; (b) provide for the integrated management of all consistent with the principles of ecologically sustainable elements of the terrestrial phase of the water cycle; (c) development and the exercise of the precautionary principle, promote the orderly, equitable and efficient use of water particularly the need to have regard to the impact of fishing resources; (d) ensure water resources are conserved and activities on non-target species and the long-term properly managed for sustainable use for the benefit of present sustainability of the marine environment; c) maximising and future Victorians; e) maximise community involvement in economic efficiency in the exploitation of fisheries resources; the making and implementation of arrangements relating to d) ensuring accountability to the fishing industry and the the use, conservation or management of water resources; f) Australian community in AFMA’s management of fisheries eliminate inconsistencies in the treatment of surface and resources; e) achieving government targets in relation to the groundwater resources and waterways; g) provide better recovery of the costs of AFMA. definition of private water entitlements and the entitlements of authorities; h) foster responsible and efficient water services suited to various needs and various consumers; i) provide recourse for persons affected by administrative decisions;

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APPENDIX 4 ~ RESEARCH PRIORITIES

Program Project Priority Functional relationship Identify the relationships among systems of wetlands and their surrounding environments. M between flora & fauna Assess the value and ecological role of different types of wetlands. M communities and ecosystem inter-actions. Identify the species and communities of estuarine and marine wetlands. L Explain the relationships between different flora and fauna communities. M Identify and define the key functional relationships in ecosystems in South West Victoria. H Explain how natural communities vary over space and time. L South West Victoria flora, Assess the population dynamics of keystone species in relation to ecological processes. M fauna and ecosystem Define and identify the long-term effects of fragmentation and change on different taxa, inventory. communities and biodiversity values. H Assess and investigate the management of grasslands and grassy woodlands. M Investigate the effects of different grazing regimes on flora and fauna species L Habitat biota for ecosystem Demonstrate and quantify ecological benefits for restoration activities. M condition. Develop an index to enhance habitat for a broader range of biota. M Impacts of land-use/habitat Assess the effects of Blue Gum plantations on other environmental values. H change on rural environments Assess the effects of Blue Gums on salinity, wetland and habitat values. M and biodiversity. Identify the residual and rotational effects of Blue Gums. M Identify and define the biodiversity value of Blue Gums, their value/s as habitat and values for connectivity.✢ H Investigate the optimum pattern of habitat and/or vegetation at landscape scale for continued biodiversity. L Develop adaptive management techniques for naturally productive systems. H Investigate the negative and/or positive effects of firewood harvesting (dead trees and fallen timber) on flora and fauna. L Investigate the negative and/or positive effects on species and/or population effected by rock removal. L Impacts and outcomes of Assess the ‘Triple Bottom Line’ value of vegetation and restoration work for site, farm landscape restoration and and landscape values.✢ H rehabilitation. Investigate the relative benefits of revegetation vs. regeneration in South West Victoria vs. benign neglect. L Incremental value for Develop an index to assess the best threshold for rehabilitation for river health. M investment in rehabilitation for river health. Impacts of rural drainage on Understand and assess the impacts of rural drainage schemes on wetland and natural water bodies. floodplain systems. M Understand and assess the impacts of rural drainage discharge on river health. H Investigate and incorporate aspects of managing run-off from raised bed cropping. L Water and pollutant Understand and assess pollutant nutrient transport pathways between surface transport processes. and groundwater systems. H Impacts of land use change. Model the impact of land-use change scenarios on the quality and quantity of surface and groundwater resources. H Model the scale, timeframe and impact of onground works on resource condition targets. H Nutrient movement in the Further develop and support the current nutrient program on nutrient loss from pastures. M catchment. Investigate the apparent increase in nutrient loads in Brucknell and Stony Creeks and the Crawford, Moyne and Merri Rivers. M Investigate the impact of raised bed cropping on nutrient combinations. L Investigate the impact of Blue Gum plantations on nutrient concentrations. L Develop a greater understanding of the availability of nutrients to fuel algal growth. M Instream environmental flows. Understand the relationship between flow and in-stream communities. H Develop and implement a basis for in-stream environmental flow optimisation H Demonstrate and quantify ecological benefits for in-stream environmental flow. H Incorporation of pest Develop an understanding of pathways to acceptance and adoption of pest management into NRM management as an integral component to all NRM programs. H* programs.

✢ Charles Sturt University, Northern Victoria, has undertaken a similar study.

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Program Project Priority Environmentally friendly Develop and assess improved models for environmental weeds and cost-benefit analysis control options. (‘Triple Bottom Line’). H* Management options for pests Develop and assess management options for weeds in riparian ecosystems impacted in ecosystems. by high intensity grazing. H Develop standard pest monitoring impact systems. H Develop indicators for sentinel sites (indicator areas). M Establish protocols and adoption methods for the integration of Best Management Practices (BMPs) in NRM. H* Biological control for exotic Develop biological control for Willow, Gorse, Blackberry, Bridal Creeper and vertebra pests. M and environmental weeds and Implement biological control as part of regional weed plan for Patterson’s Curse, vertebrate pests. Ragwort, Gorse and Thistle. M Develop awareness, best management practices, eradication and biological control for Stipoid spp (unpalatable grass syndrome). H Develop BMPs for Cape Tulip, Onion Grass, Rough Dogstail, Nassella spp, Ragwort, aquatic weeds (Alligator, Arrow Head and Lagarosiphon spp) and native weeds. H* Soil health and condition. Develop a means to reduce the organic matter decline in South West Victoria by incorporating waste organic matter into soils in a sustainable manner. H Compare the effects of stubble retention vs. stubble burning on air quality, soil organic matter, physical soil characteristics, structure, chemical composition and productivity for major soil types in South West Victoria. M Assess and explain the long-term effects of effluent application on soil properties on a range of soil types in South West Victoria. H Assess and recommend new practices for the degree of degradation producing negative environmental and production effects. M Develop a self-assessment method/s for soil capability, health and adoption of appropriate BMPs. H Groundwater and surface Investigate the variability and the effects of flow regime on wetland functions. M water flow systems. Investigate and characterise the Western Dundas Tablelands groundwater flow system. H Investigate the effects of salinity transport, rates of change and storage on the Volcanic Plains. H Evaluate the change in surface water systems on the Volcanic Plains M Further investigate the characterisation of regional groundwater flow systems. H Management of saline sites. Investigate native and introduced species for productive use on saline areas. - Develop new species - Use existing species for animal production - Investigate potential growth limitations. H Improve the techniques for the management of productive and/or biodiversity aspects of saline areas. - Salt accumulation under vegetation - Environmental impacts of saline agronomy. H Management of assets other Assess the susceptibility of assets to salinity. H than agricultural land. Understand the nature of the landscape prior to European settlement. M Infiltration/leaky systems and Identify and map spatial and temporal variations of infiltration for the management their implications for land use of recharge, nutrient loss and acidification. H practice. Quantify the impact of changes in soil moisture storage on recharge and water quality. H Quantify the ‘leakiness’ of different land uses (agricultural intensity, type of management). H Knowledge of the assets at Improve and expand the quality of agricultural land, water, infrastructure, risk. environment and heritage asset information. H Identify and develop an inventory of soil assets: pedology, hydrology and hydrogeology. H Identify and map naturally high value (biodiversity) saline areas for protection. H Develop an opportunistic regional soils assessment, utilising gas pipeline trenching. H Environmental impacts To identify, understand and monitor the impacts of land uses on environmental assets. H of land use. People, communities & To identify, understand and monitor land use 1. The impact of land uses on people and communities (demographic, employment, economic viability, health) 2. Community perceptions and values of land uses M

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Program Objective/Project Priority Hybrid land-use system. To explore the ways hybrid land-use systems (especially systems including APPENDIXperennial plants) can achieve multiple environmental, social and economic benefits. M Tracking land use and To understand and monitor the social, economic and environmental factors that drive its Impacts. land-use change. To track land-use change. To track the social, environmental and economic impacts of land-use change (including establishing appropriate benchmarks). H Pathways to sustainability. To explore mechanisms for planning and achieving sustainability. For example: M - ways of evaluating the sustainability of various land uses and practices (using various economic, social and/or environmental measures) - ways to reconcile competing economic, social and environmental factors to achieve sustainability - ways of reaching stakeholder agreement on pathways to sustainability and securing stakeholder commitment to the pathways. Continuous improvement Assess the uptake of BMP guidelines applied in South West Victoria. H of BMP systems. Evaluate the effect of BMP implementation on ‘Triple Bottom Line’ objectives in South West Victoria and review inter-relationships between the effects of the BMP (footprints). H Understand the assumptions, purpose, basis and outcomes of BMPs. M Define and understand the areas of uncertainty (assumptions) in the effectiveness of management actions to direct future research. H Develop retrospective assumption testing of prior actions. Understand and assess the effectiveness of past management actions to encourage learning from past mistakes or for successes to be passed on. H Traditional knowledge skills Evaluate and record indigenous jurisdiction in South West Victoria concerning and understandings in South traditional knowledge, skills and understandings, including the community processes West Victoria. to sanction the publication and use of such knowledge. Explore and document how traditional knowledge, skills and understanding can be integrated into contemporary management arrangements of public lands, reserves and parks Indigenous people and Natural Explore and document the land-use agreements involving indigenous stakeholders and & Cultural Resource their relevance to South West Victorian contexts. Management (NCRM). Explore and develop ways to foster and sustain indigenous involvement in NCRM at the level of policy, management and practices by reviewing experiences across Australia. Develop and implement an audit of training for indigenous people in NCRM and analyse an investigation of the most appropriate training models for indigenous stakeholders. Site investigation, protection Develop and maintain an audit of existing documentation of sites and protective regimes. and management strategies. Develop archaeological surveys to find where gaps exist that would include oral histories from relevant traditional owners. Develop and explore different management options. Knowledge sharing networks Investigate and identify the gaps in different databases. H and databases. Identify and understand client segment values. H Develop and implement a cross-curriculum natural resource management package. M Investigate and develop meaningful engagement program/s. M Develop and manage access methods to institutional and industry data. M Investigate ways indigenous stakeholders can be involved in natural resource management. ✦ Develop and implement the best support for community-based groups - e.g. Landcare, Land for Wildlife, Trust for Nature etc. H Develop specific understanding of urban and rural community values (attitudes and beliefs) toward NRM and their impacts on the environment. H Identify and evaluate ways communities can become involved in NRM. H Develop and manage effective community networks between key NRM stakeholders. H Review the effectiveness of current NRM education programs. H Explain how short-tem funding can achieve long-term outcomes. L Develop effective communication methods for the community and industry segments. H Community capacity to Develop and survey communities for their ‘willingness to adopt’ techniques identified implement BMPs. in sub-catchments. H Explore and understand the barriers for adoption of BMPs. H Develop strategies to promote the uptake of BMPs. H

✦This project should be considered a draft recommendation to be discussed further and confirmed in consultation with indigenous communities in South West Victoria.

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APPENDIX

APPENDIX 5 ~ DRAFT PROJECT PROPOSAL ASSESSMENT

Project title: Project Number: Applicant organisation:

1. Conformance with Regional Catchment Strategy and accompanying strategies and plans Does the project proposal conform with priorities identified in the Regional Catchment Strategy and supporting strategies and plans where applicable? (Max. Score 10) If yes, list RCS item, relevant actions and accompanying strategies and plans Comments Score Listed as RCS Priority (Max Score 3) Asset under Threat (4) Action Plan or Strategy in place for Protection of Asset (3) Score

OR 2. Assessment of project innovation Even if a project proposal does not conform to the priorities identified in the RCS (see 1. above) it may still proceed if it is innovative and ‘closes the gaps’ in current knowledge. The project, therefore, could make a significant contribution to addressing a catchment problem. (Max Score 10) Highly innovative Moderately innovative Limited innovation in proposed project Score

3. Assessment of project focus on Key Regional Challenges (Maximum Score 15) Key Regional Challenges Focus Level Biodiversity (Max Score 3) Waterway Health & Water Quality (3) Soil & Salinity (3) Pest Plants & Animals (3) Coastal Areas (3) Regional Sustainability & Sustainable Agriculture (3) Score Total Score X

Focus level Focus level criteria 3 Significant project focus on Key Regional Challenge 2 Moderate project focus on Key Regional Challenge 1 Minimal project focus on Key Regional Challenge 0 Key Regional Challenge is not addressed in this project

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Assessment of project conformance to Five Action Tools (Maximum Score 5 per Action Tool) Item CA/LA/PA Strategic Planning Does the proposed project: • Reflect current community values? • Ensure land is used appropriately? • Require close collaboration and partnerships between planning agencies, stakeholders and community? Score

Regional Partnerships Does the proposed project: • Create and enhance regional structures and partnerships with: • Local, state and federal governments? • Indigenous communities? • Community groups? • Landholders? • Landcare? • Local Govt for active support? • Major companies and industry groups? • Help councils identify and value natural resource assets? Score

Onground Works Does the proposed project: • Facilitate onground outcomes capable of addressing a range of threatening processes? • Require onground works to be completed through a mix of volunteer and professional labour? • Provide opportunities for volunteers to participate in training and education? • Provide education opportunities for landholders in degradation processes and remediation processes? • Foster growth in knowledge of farmers, contractors to support volunteer programs? Score

Community Engagement (capacity building) Does the proposed project: • Engage with urban and rural communities? • Enable Glenelg Hopkins CMA to increase media presence of natural resource issues ? • Require visits to farmers to educate re catchment and enabling them to also relay concerns? • Include community projects (eg tree planting) a high priority in high profile areas such as townships? • Enable focus on young people re natural resource management? • Support Landcare and local environmental groups by providing resources and cross-promoting projects to increase visibility of catchment management works? • Target local councils as a source of support for projects? Score

Monitoring and Evaluation • Have we identified what needs to be monitored? • Have we established the required methodology for evaluating performance to plan? • Have we identified who we are reporting to? • Have we established the methodology for inputting and retrieving acquired information? Score

Total Score Y

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Conformance level Conformance level criteria 5 (CA) Action tool is completely addressed 3 (LA) Action tool is largely addressed 1 (PA) Action tool is only partly addressed 0 Action tool is not addressed NA Action tool is not applicable to this particular project

Initial Project Proposal Assessment - Combined Score Assessment of project focus on Key Regional Challenges X Assessment of project conformance to Five Action Tools Y Combined Score Z

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ACRONYMS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT

Acronym Full Title Acronym Full Title AFMA Australian Fisheries Management Authority GRC&LPB Glenelg Regional Catchment and Land Protection Board ANZECC Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council GSPA Groundwater Supply Protection Area BAP Bioregion Action Planning IMCRA Interim Marine and Coastal Regionalisation for Australia BE Bulk Entitlement ISC Index of Stream Condition BMP Best Management Practice JAMBA Japan Australia Migratory Birds Agreement BVT Broad Vegetation Type C&LP LABIC Land and Biodiversity Implementation Committee Boards Catchment and Land Protection Boards NAP National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality CAMBA China Australia Migratory Birds Agreement NHT Natural Heritage Trust CASS Coastal Acid Sulphate Soils NLWRA National Land and Water Resources Audit CLPR Centre for Land Protection Research NRE Natural Resources and Environment CMA Catchment Management Authority NRM Natural Resource Management CSIRO Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research NRMSC Natural Resource Management Standing Committee Organisation NVR Native Vegetation Retention DOI Department of Infrastructure PAV Permissible Annual Volume DPI Department of Primary Industries PVI Pastoral and Veterinary Institute DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment RCS Regional Catchment Strategy EC Electrical Conductivity RHS River Health Strategy ECC Environment Conservation Council RIST Rural Industries Skills Training EMS Environmental Management Systems RLF Regional Landcare Facilitator EPA Environment Protection Authority RMAT Regional Management Action Target ESD Ecologically Sustainable Development SEPP State Environment Protection Policy EVC Ecological Vegetation Class SKM Sinclair Knight Mertz GDB Groundwater Database SMP Streamflow Management Plan GIS Geographic Information System SRW Southern Rural Water Glenelg Hopkins Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority STP Sewage Treatment Plant CMA SWCAP South West Victoria Regional Coastal Action Plan GMA Groundwater Management Area WIC Waterways Implementation Committee GMP Groundwater Management Plan

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END NOTES

Note No. Note 1Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Australia (1999) Managing Natural Resources in Rural Australia for a Sustainable Future, AGP, Canberra. 2 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2001) Corporate Directions, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 3 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2001) Annual Report 2000-01, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 4 NRE (2002) Corporate Plan Summary, NRE, East Melbourne. 5 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Health of the Catchment, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 6 Clark I (1990) Aboriginal Languages and Clans - A Historical Atlas of Western and Central Victoria, Monash University, Clayton. 7 Land Conservation Council (1996) Historic Places South West Victoria Descriptive Report, LCC, Melbourne. 8 Land Conservation Council (1996) Historic Places South West Victoria Descriptive Report, LCC, Melbourne. 9 Land Conservation Council (1996) Historic Places South West Victoria Descriptive Report, LCC, Melbourne. 10 Land Conservation Council (1996) Historic Places South West Victoria Descriptive Report, LCC, Melbourne. 11 Land Conservation Council (1996) Historic Places South West Victoria Descriptive Report, LCC, Melbourne. 12 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Native Vegetation Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 13 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Native Vegetation Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 14 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1997) Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 15 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1997) Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 16 CSIRO (2001) Climate Change Projections for Australia, CSIRO, Canberra. 17 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1997) Regional Catchment Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 18 CLPR (2001) Coastal Acid Sulphate Soils, CLPR, Bendigo. 19 Baxter N and Robinson N.J (2001) A Land Resource assessment of South West Victoria, CLPR, Bendigo. 20 Baxter N and Robinson N.J (2001) A Land Resource assessment of South West Victoria, CLPR, Bendigo. 21 Baxter N and Robinson N.J (2001) A Land Resource assessment of South West Victoria, CLPR, Bendigo. 22 National Land and Water Resources Audit (2000) Australian Dryland Salinity Assessment, NLWRA, Canberra 23 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 24 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 25 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 26 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 27 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 28 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 29 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 30 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 31 National Land and Water Resources Audit (2000) Australian Dryland Salinity Assessment, NLWRA, Canberra 32 National Land and Water Resources Audit (2000) Australian Dryland Salinity Assessment, NLWRA, Canberra 33 National Land and Water Resources Audit (2000) Australian Dryland Salinity Assessment, NLWRA, Canberra 34 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Salinity Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 35 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 36 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern. 37 Lloyd L, Hatton P & Francis N (2002) Review and Development of Monitoring Networks for The Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite CMA Regions, SMEC, East Malvern.

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Note No. Note 38 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Health of the Catchment Report, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 39 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Health of the Catchment Report, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 40 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Health of the Catchment Report, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 41 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 42 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 43 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 44 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 45 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 46 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 47 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 48 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 49 Western Coastal Board (2001) South West Estuaries Coastal Action Plan, WCB, Warrnambool. 50 Sherwood J.E (1987) The Likely Impact of Climate Change on South-West Victorian Estuaries. 51 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 52 Sherwood J.E (1987) The Likely Impact of Climate Change on South-West Victorian Estuaries. 53 Sherwood J.E (1987) The Likely Impact of Climate Change on South-West Victorian Estuaries. 54 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 55 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 56 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 57 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 58 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 59 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 60 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 61 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 62 Bantow J, Rashleigh M & Sherwood J (1985) Tuuram, Hopkins Estuary and Coastal Environs, Deakin University. 63 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 64 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Health of the Catchment Report, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 65 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Health of the Catchment Report, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 66 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Native Vegetation Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 67 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Native Vegetation Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 68 Parks Victoria (2000), State of the Parks, Parks Victoria, Melbourne. 69 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 70 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 71 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 72 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 73 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 74 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 75 Parks Victoria (2000) State of the Parks 2000, Parks Victoria, Melbourne. 76 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 77 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 78 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 79 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 80 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 81 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 82 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 83 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne.

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Note No. Note 84 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 85 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 86 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 87 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 88 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 89 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 90 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 91 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 92 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 93 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 94 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 95 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 96 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 97 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 98 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 99 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 100 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 101 NRE (2001) Victorian Catchment Indicators Online. 102 NRE (2001) Victorian Catchment Indicators Online. 103 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 104 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 105 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 106 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 107 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 108 NRE (2001) Victorian Catchment Indicators Online. 109 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Directions in Management, NRE, East Melbourne. 110 NRE (2001) Victorian Catchment Indicators Online. 111 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 112 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 113 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 114 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 115 ECC (2000) Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation: Draft Report for Public Comment, ECC, East Melbourne. 116 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Weed Action Plan (2001-2004), Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 117 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Weed Action Plan (2001-2004), Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 118 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1999) Draft Regional Waterways Management Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 119 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1999) Draft Regional Waterways Management Strategy ,Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 120 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Merri River Catchment Restoration Plan, ID&A Pty Ltd, Melbourne. 121 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1999) Draft Regional Waterways Management Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 122 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Weed Action Plan (2001-2004), Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 123 GRC&LPB (1996) Health of the Catchment Report, GRC&LPB, Hamilton. 124 GRC&LPB (1996) Health of the Catchment Report, GRC&LPB, Hamilton. 125 GRC&LPB (1996) Health of the Catchment Report, GRC&LPB, Hamilton. 126 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1999) Draft Regional Waterways Management Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 127 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1999) Draft Regional Waterways Management Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 128 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (1999) Draft Regional Waterways Management Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 129 NRE (2002) Pest Plants and Animals website, NRE, East Melbourne.

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Note No. Note 130 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins Rabbit Action Plan 2001-2006, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 131 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins Rabbit Action Plan 2001-2006, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 132 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins Rabbit Action Plan 2001-2006, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 133 NRE (2002) Pest Plants and Animals website, NRE, East Melbourne. 134 Parry G.D, Currie D.R and Crookes D.P (1997) Exotic Marine pests in Portland Harbour and environs, Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute, Queenscliff. 135 GTRPC (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use In South West Victoria, 2000 & ABS Integrated Regional Database, Version 2000. 136 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 137 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 138 Fisheries Victoria (2001) Commercial Fish Production Information Bulletin, NRE, East Melbourne. 139 GTRPC (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use In South West Victoria. 140 Estimated from GTRPC (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use In South West Victoria. 141 Farm Monitor Project (2001)- Summary Of Results 2000-2001. 142 Farm Monitor Project (2001)- Summary Of Results 2000-2001. 143 derived from Farm Monitor Project (2001)- Summary Of Results 2000-2001. 144 derived from Farm Monitor Project (2001)- Summary Of Results 2000-2001. 145 derived from GTRPC (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use In South West Victoria. 146 derived from GTRPC (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use In South West Victoria. 147 derived from GTRPC (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use In South West Victoria. 148 derived from GTRPC (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use In South West Victoria. 149 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 150 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 151 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 152 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 153 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 154 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 155 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 156 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 157 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 158 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 159 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 160 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 161 ABS (2000) Integrated Regional Database, ABS, Canberra. 162 ABARE (2000), Landcare and Farm Forestry, ABARE, Canberra 163 NRE (2002) Draft strategy for conserving biodiversity in the Warrnambool Plain bioregion, Victoria, NRE, East Melbourne. 164 Glenelg Salinity Forum (1993) Salt Assault! The Glenelg Region Salinity Strategy, A community-based response to the threat of dryland salinity in south west Victoria, Glenelg Salinity Forum, Hamilton. 165 TQA Research (2001) Communication Research Wave 2, TQA Research, Sandringham. 166 Barr, N. & Cary, J. (2000) Influencing Improved Natural Resource Management on Farms, Bureau of Rural Sciences, Kingston. 167 Natural Resource Management Standing Committee (2001) Towards a National Framework for the Development of Environmental Management Systems in Agriculture, Environmental Management Systems Working Group, Canberra. 168 Anderson, S., Lowe, K., Preece, K. & Crouch, A. (NRE) (2001) Incorporating Biodiversity into Environmental Management Systems for Victorian Agriculture, Parks, Flora and Fauna Division (NRE), East Melbourne. 169 EPA Victoria (2001) Draft State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria), EPA Victoria, Southbank. 170 Anderson, S., Lowe, K., Preece, K. & Crouch, A. (NRE) (2001) Incorporating Biodiversity into Environmental Management Systems for Victorian Agriculture, Parks, Flora and Fauna Division (NRE), East Melbourne.

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Note No. Note 171 Institute of Land and Food Resources & University of Melbourne (2000) Socio Economic Impact of Changing Land Use in South West Victoria, University of Melbourne, Melbourne. 172 West Vic. Dairy (2001) Natural Resource Action Plan for the Western Victorian Dairy Industry, West Vic. Dairy, Warrnambool. 173 Southern Farming Systems & Central Highlands Integrated Production Systems (2001) South West Victorian Horticultural Strategy, SFS, Geelong. 174 Regional Innovation Pty Ltd (2001) South West Sustainability Blueprint , Regional Innovation Pty Ltd, Warrnambool. 175 South West Sustainability Partnership (1999) South West Victoria Futures Forum Proceedings, Deakin University, Warrnambool. 176 South West Sustainability Partnership (1999) South West Victoria Futures Forum Proceedings, Deakin University, Warrnambool. 177 Regional Innovation Pty Ltd (2001) South West Sustainability Blueprint , Regional Innovation Pty Ltd, Warrnambool. 178 Australia & New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council and Biological Diversity Advisory Committee (2001) Biodiversity Conservation Research: Australia’s Priorities, Environment Australia, Canberra. 179 Parks Victoria (2001) Parks Victoria Annual Visitor Number Survey, Parks Victoria, Melbourne. 180 NRE (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity: Sustaining Our Natural Wealth, NRE, East Melbourne. 181 TQA Research (2001) Communication Research Wave 2, TQA Research, Sandringham. 182 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2001) Draft Glenelg Hopkins Native Vegetation Plan, NRE, East Melbourne. 183 183Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2001) Draft Glenelg Hopkins Native Vegetation Plan, NRE, East Melbourne. 184 NRE (2001) BushTender, NRE , East Melbourne. 185 NRE (2001) NRE Plants and Animals: Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act, NRE, East Melbourne. 186 NRE (2002) Biodiversity Action Planning, NRE, East Melbourne. 187 NRE (2002) Draft strategy for conserving biodiversity in the Warrnambool Plain bioregion, Victoria, NRE, East Melbourne. 188 National Objectives and Targets for Biodiversity Conservation 2001-2005 (2001) Environment Australia, Canberra. 189 Australia & New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council and Biological Diversity Advisory Committee (2001) Biodiversity Conservation Research: Australia’s Priorities, Environment Australia, Canberra. 190 TQA Research (2001) Communication Research Wave 2, TQA Research, Sandringham. 191 CSIRO (2001) Natural Assets - An Inventory of Ecosystem Goods & Services in the Goulburn Broken Catchment, CSIRO, Canberra. 192 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Health of the Catchment, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 193 NRE (2002) Healthy Rivers, Healthy Communities & Regional Growth, Victorian River Health Strategy, NRE, East Melbourne. 194 NRE (2002) Healthy Rivers, Healthy Communities & Regional Growth, Victorian River Health Strategy, NRE, East Melbourne. 195 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Nutrient Management Plan, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 196 NRE (2002) Healthy Rivers, Healthy Communities & Regional Growth, Victorian River Health Strategy, NRE, East Melbourne. 197 NRE (2002) Healthy Rivers, Healthy Communities & Regional Growth, Victorian River Health Strategy, NRE, East Melbourne. 198 NRE (2002) Streamflow Management Plan Framework, NRE, East Melbourne. 199 NRE (2000) Water for Growth - Realising the potential of Victoria’s water resources, NRE, East Melbourne. 200 CSIRO (2001) Natural Assets - An Inventory of Ecosystem Goods & Services in the Goulburn Broken Catchment, CSIRO, Canberra. 201 TQA Research (2001) Communication Research Wave 2, TQA Research, Sandringham. 202 GRC & LPB (1997) Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy, GRC & LPB, Hamilton. 203 GRC & LPB (1997) Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy, GRC & LPB, Hamilton. 204 GRC & LPB (1997) Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy, GRC & LPB, Hamilton. 205 CSIRO (2001) Natural Assets - An Inventory of Ecosystem Goods & Services in the Goulburn Broken Catchment, CSIRO, Canberra. 206 NRE (2002) Acid Soil Strategy for Victoria, Ag. Vic. NRE, Rutherglen. 207 NRE (2002) Acid Soil Strategy for Victoria, Ag. Vic. NRE, Rutherglen. 208 Sarre A (1999) Sodicity: A Dirty Word in Australia, Nova Science in the News, Australian Academy of Science, Canberra.

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Note No. Note 209 Sarre A (1999) Sodicity: A Dirty Word in Australia, Nova Science in the News, Australian Academy of Science, Canberra. 210 Thomas, A. (1999) South West Ragwort Strategy 1999-2002, South West Ragwort Reference Group, Colac 211 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins Rabbit Action Plan 2001-2006, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 212 GRC & LPB (1997) Glenelg Regional Catchment Strategy, GRC & LPB, Hamilton. 213 TQA Research (2001) Communication Research Wave 2, TQA Research, Sandringham. 214 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan 2001-2004, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 215 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan 2001-2004, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 216 Aust. & New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council & Forestry Ministers (1997) The National Weeds Strategy: a strategic approach to weed problems of national significance, AGP, Canberra 217 NRE (2001) The Draft Victorian Pest Management Framework, NRE, East Melbourne. 218 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins CMA Weed Action Plan 2001-2004, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 219 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2000) Glenelg Hopkins Rabbit Action Plan 2001-2006, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 220 TQA Research (2001) Communication Research Wave 2, TQA Research, Sandringham. 221 Victorian Coastal Council (2002) Victorian Coastal Strategy, VCC, Melbourne. 222 Victorian Government (1987) Planning and Environment Act, VGP, Melbourne. 223 Municipal Association of Victoria (2002) Local Planning Policy Framework Model for Catchment Management Issues, Municipal Association of Victoria, Melbourne. 224 Department of Infastructure (2001) Victorian Planning Provisions, DOI, Melbourne. 225 Cullen, P. (2001) Victorian Catchment Management Forum 2001 - Conference Notes, Glenelg Hopkins CMA & VCMC, Hamilton. 226 NRE (2001) Victorian Action Plan for Second Generation Landcare - Healthy Landscapes - Sustainable Communities, Draft for Comment, NRE, East Melbourne. 227 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Draft Regional Landcare Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 228 NRE (2001) Victorian Action Plan for Second Generation Landcare - Healthy Landscapes - Sustainable Communities, Draft for Comment, NRE, East Melbourne. 229 Glenelg Hopkins CMA (2002) Draft Regional Landcare Strategy, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton. 230 TQA Research (2001) Communications Research Wave 2, TQA, Sandringham. 231 National Natural Resource Management Taskforce (1999) Managing Natural Resources in Rural Australia for a Sustainable Future, AFFA, Canberra. 232 Adapted from Fleming N, Young D and Abernethy B (2002) Integrating Our Management of Natural Resources, SKM, Melbourne. 233 TQA Research (2001) Communications Research Wave 2, TQA Research, Sandringham.

160 Cover 5/9/03 5:17 PM Page 4

Produced by: Glenelg Hopkins CMA 79 French Street, Hamilton Vic 3300 Australia Tel: (03) 5571 2526 Fax: (03) 5571 2935 Email: [email protected] Find out more about the Glenelg Hopkins CMA on the Internet at: www.glenelg-hopkins.vic.gov.au

Disclaimer The Glenelg Hopkins CMA do not guarantee this publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and, therefore, disclaims all liability from error, loss or other consequence that may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. Further, specific references to funding levels in this publication are for indicative purposes only. The level of Government investment in this publication is contingent on budgets and Government priorities. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA have prepared this publication with diligence. Many statements within the publication originate from group or individual discussions with the Glenelg Hopkins community and have not been evidentially tested. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA do not accept liability for any action resulting from an interpretation of the publication or any part of it. Cover 5/9/03 5:15 PM Page 1

Glenelg Hopkins CMA 79 French Street, Hamilton, Vic 3300 Tel: (03) 5571 2526 Fax: (03) 5571 2935 A copy of the RCS is also available on the internet at:

www.glenelg-hopkins.vic.gov.au GSDM6389 04/03